De-Addiction and Relapse Prevention Techniques For most people fighting an addiction to heroin or any other substance abuse, long-

term recovery can be a lifelong process. One of the biggest impediments to long-

term sobriety is a relapse, and that is the last thing an addict would like to happen.

But relapses do happen, and every recovering addict has to take it on the chin.

Whenever something like the Philip Seymour Hoffman saga happens, it sends chills

down the spine. Despite being sober for 23 years, the American actor relapsed in

2013 and eventually died of an overdose.

So, aren’t there ways to

prevent or minimize relapses

during and after de-addiction?

There are, of course. Besides

getting into drug and alcohol

abuse treatment facilities,

self-discipline and

determination are also required

to defeat the addiction. It is

also important to understand

the causes that trigger a

relapse in an addict.

Here are some ways to prevent a relapse for an addict:

Building resilience: The will to quit is the driving force behind any

rehabilitation story. Building a strong and resilient willpower helps to thwart

temptations at every corner. Craving and temptation are the biggest demons

for recovering addicts.

Staying in the therapy: Cutting all ties with the rehab immediately after

recovery is never a good idea. There should be regular meetings with the

therapist for at least one year after checking out of a rehab center. The drug

addiction treatment centers in California regularly treat patients who had

been part of a rehab program but stopped consulting after being discharged.

Participating in various support events and being part of such groups also

help to a great extent.

Avoiding situations where alcohol and drugs flourish: There should be a

conscious move to avoid parties and people who have propensity to use illicit

drugs. This will ensure cutting down the lures drastically for an addict.

Inculcating healthy habits: Healthy habits like physical activities, creative

pursuits and getting involved in brain stimulating acts have a positive impact

on the mind which will dissuade previous addicts from going back to the old

destructive ways.

Getting enough sleep: Sleep deprivation is a scourge for anybody. And if

somebody happens to be a recovering addict, it is even more crucial. For

them it has to be re-learned, because addiction of any type makes the system

irregular. Getting regular and sufficient sleep will ensure a healthy body which

will cope faster in recovery.

Taking signs and symptoms as normal: Coming to terms with emotions

and feelings without the effect of drugs can be overwhelming. It is paramount

to realize and accept feelings that come the addict’s way. These are normal

and there is nothing to be overawed. Such feelings will subside with time.

Living every moment as it comes: Living in the present moment and staying

focused is vital to keeping a relapse at bay. It is futile fantasizing about the

past which will only deplete the confidence level. Staying upbeat and focused

in the moment will also keep away temptations.

Having patience: Showing patience at every step of de-addiction will be

much needed. Achieving sobriety takes time and it should not be expected to

happen overnight. Hence, getting restless over little changes and delay is not

going to help. Eventually, it is a game of patience for every addict trying to go

sober.

Sovereign Addiction Rehab Services offers detoxification treatment for substance

abuse, including narcotic abuse. Call our 24/7 helpline number 855-683-9756 for

more information on detoxification programs.

www.sovaddictionrehab.com