One of the hardest things to do in your recovery is preventing a drug-related relapse.
For instance, there are triggers that give you cravings or entice you to use drugs again, but you must resist. If you’re aware of what makes you want to use drugs, however, you can avoid a relapse.
We’ll tell you how to prevent a relapse by listing possible triggers that you may or may not be aware of in your recovery.
Circle of Influence
The people you surround yourself with matter the most. Whether it’s your friends or family, influence from others can hurt or help you in your recovery. However, if you are with friends that you use to do drugs with and there is peer-pressure involved, your risk of relapsing will be high. Change your friends if it becomes an issue to prevent a relapse.
The National Insitute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), states that stress linked to the drugs, such as friends, as well as contact with the drugs are the most common triggers, resulting in relapses.
Environment
If you live in a state or town that has a drug epidemic that isn’t slowing down any time soon, you may have to move. Many people go to substance abuse treatment centers in other states other than their own, completing treatment. The same can occur if you were to move, opening doors to a fresh start.
Financial Issues
Financial stress is a different kind of pressure, as feeling trapped in debt or poverty can result in a relapse. Luckily, addiction centers and other facilities can assist in finding job placement, helping to alleviate financial problems.
Relationship Woes
Besides money problems, the most common reason people relapse is stressful relationships. Having a spouse or partner that isn’t a positive influence on your life will increase your chances of using drugs again. It’s possible that to prevent a relapse, breaking ties with that person may be the best thing to do.
Conclusion
The triggers for a relapse to occur are endless, depending on the person. Be self-aware of your own personal struggles and take responsibility to prevent a relapse.
Seek professional help or contact a person or facility if you feel you are struggling.