Although it’s hard to predict exactly what a relapse might happen, it’s possible to develop a plan to prevent one from happening to you. Having a clear understanding of the triggers that can lead to a relapse can help keep you focused on recovery.
While some triggers can be avoided, others can lead to a relapse. There are common triggers that can affect an individual’s recovery.
Boredom
People suffering from eating disorders often resort to food as a way to relieve boredom. However, boredom can also allow their minds to wander off into scenarios involving drugs or alcohol. To avoid this, it’s important that you develop a plan to manage your boredom. Put steps in place that you can take when fighting boredom to help ensure you can avoid potential relapse.
Celebrations
Happy times can lead to relapses, especially when festivities involve parties and the presence of alcohol and other illicit substances. Although you can avoid these events, you may still end up getting involved in them, which can include drinking and other illicit substances. Having a strong friend can help you resist temptation, especially if you are accidentally offered something that could cause a relapse.
Stress
One of the most common reasons why people relapse is stress. According to studies, people who struggle with addiction often turn to their substance abuse as a coping mechanism when they are experiencing stressful situations. This is because their primary method of coping is with their addiction.
To avoid experiencing a relapse, it’s important that you identify the areas of your life where you are experiencing excessive stress. This can be done by taking a look at the places and people in your life that cause you stress.
Relationship Problems
You may be experiencing problems in your marriage, a working relationship, or a family relationship. Before you start recovery, you may have used alcohol or other illicit substances as a coping mechanism. However, now that you’re back in control of your addiction, you have to find new ways to manage your stress. If you have a sponsor, this can be a great time to talk to him or her about supporting you as you put in place new strategies.