Relapse Prevention

Drug Relapse Prevention

Relapse prevention is a key element in the long-term recovery of a drug addicted individual. The fact is that drug addiction is a chronic illness, and as such, relapse is a real possibility. That is why drug relapse prevention and treatment are the most crucial elements of effective drug addiction treatment.

Drug Relapse – A Threat to Recovery

Up to 54 percent of all drug addiction treatment patients are expected to relapse, In addition, a full 61 percent of those individuals will experience multiple relapse. Many addicts relapse within a month of ending their drug addiction treatment. But even after 12 months of drug addiction treatment and being clean, relapse may occur. Although relapse is a symptom of drug addiction, it is preventable .Drug relapse prevention treatment is a critical element to the success of any addiction treatment program.

Understanding Relapse Prevention

There are many warning signs and contributing factors that indicate a relapse is not far away. Relapse is not just the actual return to the pattern of substance abuse; it is also the process prior to the patient's return to drug use. Relapse, however, does not mean recovering drug addicts will partake in destructive drug addiction patterns for the rest of their lives. Studies of lifelong patterns of recovery and relapse reveal that about one-third of addicts enjoy permanent abstinence following their first serious attempt at recovery. Another third experience episodes of relapse but eventually achieve long-term abstinence. The last third continue to experience chronic relapses which may or may not result in eventual recovery from chemical addiction (Gorski, Kelley & Havens, 1993). Because relapse is so common during and after drug addiction therapies, it is vital that relapse prevention be included in any drug rehabilitation program.

Drug Addiction Treatment and the Relapse Prevention Plan

While in drug addiction treatment, every patient should be participating in a relapse prevention program. These programs vary in content, but should focus on developing coping skills, understanding drug addiction triggers and reshaping negative belief systems. Upon nearing discharge from drug addiction treatment a relapse prevention plan should be put into place. This plan should "piggy back" what's been learned in the program and address important after-care issues including living arrangements, employment, relationships, private therapy or psychiatric care. In addition, the recovering addict is urged to find 12-step meetings and continue attending them as an aid to continuous recovery efforts.

When choosing a drug addiction treatment program make sure a relapse prevention program is included. Find out how they identify "relapse triggers" and what relapse prevention techniques they employ before choosing a center that best fits the drug addicted individuals specific needs.

If you require assistance in locating a relapse prevention program or drug addiction treatment offering effective relapse prevention, please call our helpline at 1-800-820-5841.The time for you to get information and help is NOW.