The following is an example of a relapse prevention plan that can act as your template. Healthy habits that can support a relapse prevention plan include regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and stress reduction techniques. These habits can help individuals maintain physical and emotional wellness, reducing the risk of relapse. Relapse prevention https://media138.org/cannabinoid-hyperemesis-syndrome-chs/ is a critical component in managing conditions1 like major depressive disorder, anorexia nervosa, substance use disorders, and other medical conditions. Triggers are cues that can spark cravings and raise the risk of returning to substance use.

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  • It identifies triggers, outlines coping strategies and sets up a network of supportive individuals who can help you stay on track.
  • These practices can help individuals stay present and focused, reducing the risk of relapse.
  • It’s important to remember that recovery is a journey, and setbacks might happen.
  • But don’t sweat it—arm yourself with some nifty coping tricks and steer clear of these triggers to boost your journey of recovery.
  • According to the National Library of Medicine, estimates from recent clinical studies suggest that over two-thirds of people relapse within months or even weeks of beginning treatment.

This section should include detailed information about the groups and individuals who are part of your support system. Before you can effectively prevent relapse, it’s crucial to understand the factors that contributed to your substance use in the first place. This involves a deep dive into your personal history, identifying patterns, triggers, and vulnerabilities. As time passes, it may be important to revisit your relapse prevention plan.

Incorporating coping strategies and support networks

  • Since substance addiction is defined as a progressive, chronic, and relapsing disease, relapse is an incredibly common occurrence in the recovery population.
  • It also often works best if the clinicians know the patient well and their individual situations, triggers, and strengths.
  • Involving mental health professionals and utilizing various treatment options can significantly enhance your recovery process.

Grounding techniques can include focusing on physical sensations, describing surroundings or engaging in a simple task, such as knitting or solving a puzzle. AddictionResource aims to present the most accurate, trustworthy, and up-to-date medical content to our readers. Our team does their best for our Sober living house readers to help them stay informed about vital healthcare decisions.

how to write a relapse prevention plan

Common High-Risk Situations

By utilizing these resources and developing a personalized relapse prevention plan, individuals can increase their chances of maintaining sobriety and achieving long-term recovery. Working with a trained therapist or counselor can help you identify and address underlying issues that may contribute to relapse. It can also help you develop coping skills and strategies to manage triggers and cravings. Consider incorporating therapy or counseling into your relapse prevention plan.

You can use all this information to create a relapse prevention plan (or modify one you already have). This plan acts as a roadmap, providing strategies to prevent relapse and a clear plan for what to do if you do relapse. At stage 3, it may seem like relapse prevention plans don’t have a part to play.

Whether you are just starting out or you have been in recovery for some time, having a solid plan can make the difference between a momentary lapse and a lifelong struggle. By applying the strategies outlined here — and by seeking professional or community support when you need it — you can strengthen your commitment to a healthy, substance-free life. At the same time, you may need to set boundaries with individuals who do not respect your recovery. While it may be difficult, especially if these individuals are close friends or family, learning to say “no” or limiting contact with people who use substances around you can be critical. Outline a plan for handling situations with unsupportive or actively using friends. Consider role-playing or rehearsing scripts that help you politely but firmly stand by your choice to stay sober.

how to write a relapse prevention plan

It is designed to help relapse prevention plan you identify your triggers, warning signs, and coping strategies. If you are in recovery from addiction or mental illness, you likely know about the risks of relapse. Relapse refers to a return to using alcohol or drugs after being abstinent for some time.