Relapse Prevention Basics
This is the process of identifying and managing thoughts, emotions, situations, and behaviors that may lead back to substance use.
What is relapse prevention?
This is the first stage of relapse, during which a person may not be thinking about using but begins neglecting healthy behaviors.
emotional relapse
People, places, emotions, thoughts, or situations that increase the desire to use are called this
triggers
In the HALT principle, the letter H stands for this physical condition.
hungry
These are healthy alternatives to returning to substance use.
coping skills
Recovery involves creating this type of lifestyle to support long-term sobriety.
healthy, recovery-focused lifestyle
Bottling up emotions, poor sleep, isolation, and skipping self-care are signs of this relapse stage.
emotional relapse
Anger, anxiety, guilt, boredom, and loneliness are examples of this type of trigger
emotional triggers
In the HALT principle, the letter A stands for this emotion.
angry
Deep breathing, meditation, and grounding are coping skills that can help manage this.
stress or emotional distress
Relapse prevention helps individuals recognize these before they develop into a crisis.
What are warning signs
During this stage, one part of a person wants to stay sober while another part thinks about using.
mental relapse
Bars, liquor stores, parties, and neighborhoods associated with substance use are examples of this type of trigger.
environmental triggers
In the HALT principle, the letter L stands for this condition that may increase cravings and negative thinking.
lonely
Attending meetings and talking with this recovery support person are examples of healthy coping strategies.
a sponsor
The goal of relapse prevention is not perfection. The goal is this.
preparation
Romanticizing past use, bargaining, dishonesty, and thoughts of “just once” are warning signs of this stage.
mental relapse
Peer pressure, toxic relationships, conflict, and exposure to active users belong to this trigger category.
relationship triggers
In the HALT principle, the letter T stands for this condition that reduces coping ability and emotional regulation
tired
Journaling, art, reading, and listening to music are examples of these types of coping activities.
healthy expressive or leisure activities
Relapse is usually not a single event but this type of process.
gradual process
This stage occurs when a person actually returns to substance use.
physical relapse
Legal problems, financial stress, employment issues, and major life changes are examples of this type of trigger.
situational triggers
Poor nutrition can negatively affect these three areas and increase relapse risk
mood, energy, and decision-making
The more coping skills a person develops, the more of these they have available during difficult situations.
recovery tools