7 Ways to prevent a relapse:

Once you enter a life in recovery, staying clean and sober becomes a number one priority. For those who don’t make a solid effort, falling into old habits can happen quickly. Relapsing is one of the scariest things that can happen to a recovering addict. Along with changing people, places and things, there are many lifestyle changes that can be made.

We’ve come up with seven effective ways to prevent a relapse:

1. WORK A SOLID PROGRAM Perhaps the most important way of preventing relapse is to work a solid program. This includes finding a sponsor, doing step work, attending meetings and picking up commitments. Going through a treatment program only scratches the surface of addiction. In order to live a successful clean and sober life, it’s important to remain active in your recovery.

2. UTILIZE YOUR SOBER SUPPORT The best part about entering a life in recovery is realising that you aren’t alone. Through the fellowship, you are able to meet others who have gone through similar situations and struggles. Once you’ve found a sponsor, continue growing your sober support by joining a home group and attending recovery events. It’s important to have a few people you know you can reach out to at a moment’s notice.

3. AVOID AND MANAGE YOUR TRIGGERS In early recovery, avoiding people, place sand things that trigger you may be the best option. It’s important to take time to recognise what triggers are and how you can avoid the negative feelings the cause. As time goes on, you will learn how to not only avid certain triggers but manage them as well. Know your limits and don’t let the expectations of others diverge you from a clean and sober path.

4. BUILD A HEALTHY ROUTINE Having a routine in place is a great step in building a healthy lifestyle. A routine can include what time you wake up, steps to get ready for work, meals, exercise, meetings etc. When you already have a plan, you are less likely to diverge and partake in unhealthy or negative behaviours. Having a routine and planning ahead can also help relieve anxiety and build self-esteem. It’s a great feeling knowing you accomplished what you set out to at the end of the day.

5. MANAGE YOUR STRESS & ANXIETY In active addiction, stress and anxiety are often the main triggers for drinking and using. Once you enter a life of recovery, it’s time to learn healthy ways to release stress and anxiety. Common ways to relieve these feelings are talking with others, exercising, mediating, eating healthy and getting enough rest. Bottling up these emotions can quickly lead to a downward spiral. Finding ways to manage your stress and anxiety will not only help you avoid a relapse, but also help you lead a happier, healthier life.

6. CONNECT WITH GOD Many recovering addicts associate a previous relapse due to their lack of a spiritual connection. By finding faith in God, you are recognising there is something bigger than yourself that can help you from falling back into the grips of addiction. Having faith in the Saviour allows you to accept the things you cannot change, and find the courage to change the things you can. Making a connection with your Saviour can take time, so be patient. Recognise how God’s power is working in the lives of those around you, and eventually you will recognise it working in yours as well.

7. TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF By incorporating the steps above, you are already learning ways to take care of yourself. Take it a step further by spending time learning the types of activities and hobbies you enjoy. A life in recovery creates the opportunity for you to live the life you were meant to, as God intended. Get to know yourself again and pursue a lifestyle that will make you feel healthy, content and happy.