Reeling from a relapse? Don’t give up yet.
The path to recovery is long and frustrating and relapse triggers are absolutely part of that. When you believe that you’re on the road to recovery from drug abuse or addiction, a breakdown can feel like a huge setback.
But, it doesn’t have to be. Regardless of how ill-advised your actions were, you can and should pick up your path to addiction recovery as soon as possible.
Don’t know what to do after a relapse? You’re about to find out!
Let’s get into it!
Acknowledge the Relapse and Don’t Beat Yourself Up Over It
It’s important to acknowledge and accept when we have a relapse in any aspect of our lives. Whether it’s in our recovery journey or in other areas, beating ourselves up over it will only make things worse.
Instead, we should understand that it is a natural part of the process and use it as an opportunity for growth and learning. It’s not about the relapse itself, but how we handle it and move forward.
Remember, it’s okay to stumble, as long as we keep getting back up.
Practice Self-Compassion and Forgive Yourself
Relapse can often bring feelings of guilt, shame, and disappointment. Instead of battering yourself up, try to show yourself kindness and understanding. Remind yourself that you are human and that setbacks are a normal part of the journey.
Holding on to negative feelings will only hinder your progress and it is important to let it go to move forward. By doing this, we can break the cycle of self-blame and forgiveness you would offer to a friend.
Identify the Triggers That Led to the Relapse
One of the hardest steps is to identify the triggers that led to the breakdown. This can involve reflecting on the events, emotions, and situations.
Additionally, it could be stress, boredom, or being around certain people or places. Once these are identified, it is best to find healthy coping mechanisms and avoid these triggers in the future.
Keep in mind that you can take control of your recovery journey and decrease the chances of deteriorating in the future.
Consider Joining a Rehab Program
After experiencing a relapse, it can be overwhelming to try and get back on track alone. This is why considering joining a rehab program, such as a men’s residential rehabilitation program, can be a beneficial step toward recovery.
These types of programs offer a safe and supportive environment for individuals to heal and learn techniques to prevent future relapses. Moreover, being surrounded by others who are going through similar experiences can provide a sense of camaraderie.
Furthermore, professional therapists and counselors can also provide personalized treatment plans to address underlying issues that may have contributed to the relapse. Ultimately, it can give the necessary tools and support to maintain long-term sobriety.
Step-by-Step Guide on What to Do After a Relapse
It’s common to feel discouraged after a relapse, but it’s important to remember that recovery is a journey and setbacks happen. Knowing what to do after a relapse will serve as a tool to bounce back and continue on your path to soberness.
If you or a loved one are struggling with relapse, seek support and never give up. Don’t let a relapse define you, take action and keep moving forward!
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