Even after successfully recovering from your substance abuse disorder, there are still pitfalls that you have to watch out for: relapses. Previous drug abusers frequently relapse and return to their former identities and behaviors. At least 80% of those who have maintained long-term abstinence have relapsed at least once. You must be cautious not to slip into the depths of relapse now that you aim for sobriety.
There are institutions and people who can help you if you feel a relapse coming. If you are looking for a rehabilitation center, you can visit UKAT West Sussex. Now, here are five helpful tips for a better, consistent recovery lifestyle.
Tip 1: Determine and understand personal triggers
It’s essential to identify your external and internal triggers. Relapse is easily triggered by certain people, places, situations, thoughts, and emotions. Your triggers are your biggest risks, so you have to be prepared when they come. Some common forms of triggers are stress, relationship problems, and people who use drugs or drink alcohol.
Tip 2: Be aware of signs of relapse
If you are not aware of the signs of a relapse, it can easily sneak up on you. That can get extremely dangerous because you do not have your defenses up. You have to understand the three stages of relapse: emotional, mental, and physical relapse.
Signs of relapse can include feeling yourself going back to your addictive thinking patterns, becoming compulsive, and thinking less rationally about using drugs or taking alcohol. When you can’t handle any of these, do not hesitate to reach out for help.
Tip 3: Do not go back to old habits
You went to rehab to change your life and become a new person again. When you go back to your old habits, you can easily acquire your addiction again. Ensure to stay away from people with whom you once abused substances or places that remind you of your triggers. To avoid reverting, try to alter your surroundings as much as possible.
Tip 4: Keep a schedule
Start by working towards little milestones. Try making a timetable you have to follow every day or week. You may also work out consistently, eat healthily and establish a sleep schedule. This might assist you in focusing on precious things you want to devote.
Tip 5: Have better relationships
It would be preferable if you were in a better crowd to keep you on track. Your past relationships may be toxic, which led to you spiraling down. In this case, do not be afraid of cutting off unhealthy relationships. Our former drinking buddies or drug dealers aren’t really the best people to hang around with. Instead, focus on developing healthy friendships with other people and your loved ones. You can ask a lifestyle coach for help. If you’d like to see one, click here.
You’ve struggled for sobriety. Make every effort to prevent your energy and time from being wasted. Keep these tips to heart, and you’ll maintain your freedom from past abusive habits.
