Relapse Prevention Planning And Counseling Services
At Hope Canyon, we’re passionate about getting you on the road to recovery — and helping you stay on it.
Early sobriety is an exciting time, especially when you’ve recently completed treatment. And while we encourage you to take in the world around you, it’s important to be vigilant. Particularly in the early months of sobriety, you’re likely to encounter triggers, as well as urges to drink or use drugs again. Without extensive planning and support, these urges can turn into relapses. That’s why, at Hope Canyon, we do all we can to equip you with the tools you need to avoid and prevent relapse as you move along your recovery journey.
Substance Abuse Relapse Prevention Defined
Throughout all phases of your substance abuse treatment at Hope Canyon, we’ll educate you about relapse warning signs, triggers and coping skills. That way, when they happen to you — as they happen to most people in recovery — you won’t be surprised, and instead can handle them in a healthy way.
After all, your brain is adapting to functioning without drugs and alcohol, and sometimes it can revert to old, destructive patterns … especially when you’re feeling hungry, tired or otherwise vulnerable. The good news is that you can know in advance what to look for, and have a plan in place. And we’re here to help.
Taking Charge In Preventing Substance Abuse Relapse
You’ll want to take action to combat triggers and urges that can lead to relapse. Many times, that involves changing your environment and seeking the support of other people in recovery. Here are a few options:
- Fitness/exercise: You may find that you have extra energy without drugs and alcohol keeping you down. Exercise offers a chance to channel that energy in a healthy way.
- Meetings: Whether 12-step or SMART Recovery, these meetings are a great opportunity to build new sober friendships and to create accountability. You can even find some of them online.
- Writing: Keeping a journal about your experiences can make your emotions feel more manageable.
- Mindfulness: You can explore traditional meditation, or put it into practice with yoga or Tai Chi. Mindfulness exercises are a powerful way to help you reset.
- Group Therapy: These sessions can provide you with support and problem-solving as you navigate the realities of early sobriety.
- Hobbies: It’s vital to find new activities to fill your time, engage your mind and provide personal fulfillment.
Preventing Relapse Through Aftercare
Your individualized recovery plan includes directions for aftercare. Hope Canyon offers aftercare support meetings, and you’re encouraged to attend regularly. You’ll also find support and camaraderie through our alumni groups. And be sure to continue with therapy and counseling, so your behavioral health team can provide expert advice in preventing relapse.
No matter what, you never have to feel alone. Your friends at Hope Canyon are here to support you and give you the guidance you need to avoid relapse — and find happiness in recovery.