Relapse Prevention Programs in Cary, NC

Much like any chronic condition, addiction is a disease that must be managed throughout life. Even after the successful completion of a professional drug or alcohol addiction treatment program, 40 to 60 percent of people will relapse and return to substance abuse in the future. As a result, relapse prevention programs that seek to minimize the risk of relapse are an important part of any complete treatment plan for addiction.

How Relapse Happens

Relapse usually occurs through a series of three stages:

. Emotion relapse, experiencing trigger emotions like anger or loneliness

. Mental relapse, thinking about using drugs and alcohol

. Physical relapse, using drugs or alcohol again

The Importance of Relapse Prevention Programs

Relapse prevention programs can help those in recovery spot warning signs before they reach the point of physical relapse. In addition, relapse prevention programs provide a valuable support network that people can rely on when they do experience partial or full relapse. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration reports that recovery support of the sort provided by these programs can greatly improve the outcome of drug and alcohol treatment over the long term.

Some of the things learned through relapse prevention include:

. What the warning signs of emotional and mental relapse are and how to respond appropriately when they occur

. How to develop a lifestyle that reduces exposure to high-risk situations that can encourage drug and alcohol use

. Strategies for managing negative emotions without letting them take over and encourage drug and alcohol use

. Methods for dealing with cravings and triggers that would once have led to drug and alcohol use

. Evaluating elements of one’s daily life that are not conducive to recovery

. Getting support from professionals, peers, family and friends who can provide strength and positive reinforcement during the month after rehab is complete

. The steps to take if a relapse occurs; Often this is in the form of a written plan with actionable steps that can be quickly followed in times of trouble.

Techniques for Preventing Relapse

Relapse prevention programs can include a number of different types of classes, therapies and interventions. Normally, relapse prevention programs are discussed and decided upon as a part of aftercare at the end of drug and alcohol treatment. Some features of relapse prevention programs may include:

. Group or individual therapy with a psychologist or counselor
. Recovery support groups
. Participating in clubs, sports and activities that don’t involve drinking and drugs
. Regular exercise and good nutrition
. Cultivating an interest in hobbies

Help for Addiction in Cary, NC

At Cary Drug Treatment Centers, we provide help for people whose lives are being destroyed by addiction to drugs and alcohol. We develop individualized, holistic treatment plans that address the physical dependence on substances and that allow those in recovery to explore the causes of their addiction in a safe, secure, environment. Relapse prevention programs are a cornerstone of the aftercare plans that we develop for those completing our rehab services.

If you or someone you love could benefit from drug and alcohol rehab in Cary, North Carolina, contact Cary Drug Treatment Centers at (919) 301-0170.