Relapse can be a constant worry for individuals looking to change their lives, especially for those who have large gaps between substance use. Accidental overdose is a severe risk for people experiencing relapse since their tolerance will be much lower than before. Relapse prevention programs during addiction treatment can provide the skills people overcoming substance use need to recognize the signs of relapse and avoid returning to drug or alcohol use.
At BRC Healthcare, we are well-versed in helping people who have relapsed overcome their dependence on drugs or alcohol for good. All of our treatment centers in Austin, TX provide a comprehensive focus on relapse prevention as a staple of lifelong recovery. With detox options, residential rehab, and sober living housing, we are well-equipped to offer the tools needed for a lifetime of sobriety. Discover how our addiction treatment programs can help you or a loved one overcome substance use on the road to a better life by calling 888.559.2036.
Recognizing the Stages of Relapse
Drugs and alcohol can physically change a person’s brain and cause significant shifts in emotions and thoughts. One of the most notable changes is in the brain’s reward center. The rush and immense volume of short-term positive feelings caused by substances are nearly impossible for the brain to replicate naturally after quitting drugs and alcohol. As such, people in recovery often experience a relapse pursuing these feelings.
There are several signs that a person may be approaching relapse, including three distinct stages.
- Emotional – Often described as the first stage of relapse, emotional relapse occurs before using drugs or alcohol again. People in this stage often feel depressed, angry, anxious, guilty, or shameful.
- Mental – The second stage starts when a person recognizes their cravings. Their internal struggle to abstain from using drugs and alcohol can cause intense feelings and can quickly lead to substance use if it’s not addressed. They may withdraw socially and have poor sleep or eating patterns.
- Physical – The final stage, physical relapse, is when a person returns to drug or alcohol use. They may disengage from their support system and stop attending meetings.
The risk of relapse is a natural part of life in recovery but does not have to be the end of the journey. The sooner someone can receive help during or after relapse, the better chances they have of getting back on the right track.
Our Whole-Person Approach to Relapse Prevention
Substance use disorder is a chronic disease. As with any chronic disease, relapse is always a possibility. However, our experience has shown that the longer a person can engage in the treatment and the more individualized that treatment is, the more positive the outcome.
BRC Healthcare’s comprehensive treatment plans are designed for clients who have experienced a relapse. Detox options, varying levels of residential treatment, and transitional living residences provide long-term, integrated care for substance use disorder. We specialize in treating people who have relapsed before or identify as treatment-resistant with a multi-pronged approach including:
- Medical, psychiatric, and psychosocial evaluations
- Intensive healing
- Case management
- Aftercare monitoring
- Long-term family support
- Transitional living opportunities
Relapse happens, but it isn’t a sign of moral failure. It’s a sign that treatment needs to be more accurately tailored to a client’s needs. In our experience, permanent recovery outcomes occur when a client participates in a combination of evidence-based clinical therapies, 12-step healing, and relapse prevention programs under the direction of a case manager who advocates for their care.
Start Recovering and Avoid Relapse at BRC Healthcare
If you or a loved one is struggling with a substance use disorder or chronic relapse, we can help. Our relapse prevention programs at Makana Path, BRC Recovery Center, and Segue Recovery are tailored to each individual’s specific needs and provide long-term integrated care for those in recovery from addiction.
We focus on providing clients with the best chance at achieving lifelong sobriety. Contact us online or by calling 888.559.2036 today to learn more about our addiction treatment and relapse prevention programs.