Short, Mid, and Long Term Relapse Prevention Techniques for Women in Recovery

Much of what we teach at The Open Door involves relapse prevention techniques so that you have the foundation for a lifetime of joy and fulfillment in recovery. Though these techniques are relatively easy, the more difficult part of creating a successful relapse prevention strategy is creating habits of doing these techniques on a regular basis.

Just like a dieter who loses weight on a strict diet but then gains weight again after ending their controlled diet, an addict can quickly slip back into abuse without a strong relapse prevention strategy. Addiction recovery is an ongoing journey that requires constant and consistent attention.

If you are an addict who wishes to reclaim your life, or if you are in recovery but feel yourself on the verge of succumbing to your addiction, it is imperative that you make use of all of the relapse prevention tools and techniques available and build a relapse prevention plan to see you through even the most difficult times.

A good relapse prevention plan will get you through times when you feel like giving in. Your relapse prevention ‘bag of tricks' should include short term, mid term, and long term actions.

Short Term Relapse Prevention Actions

Short term relapse prevention activities are necessary when you need to change your state of mind NOW. These will get you through your weakest moments when you are on the verge of picking up a drink or calling someone for drugs. The most important thing you can do in this moment is to change your state of mind immediately.

You've got to do something to jolt yourself out of the way you are currently feeling and create an entirely different mindset. This might mean jumping up and down and doing 20 jumping jacks while shouting 'I'm a strong and independent woman!,' singing a favorite song at the top of your lungs, or dropping everything and taking a brisk walk around the block. These actions may seem strange or weird – but they will certainly whisk you out of your current mindset and take you to a place of more positive state of being.

Mid Term Relapse Prevention Actions

Mid term relapse prevention actions are those that you engage in on a weekly basis to keep your mindset and your self esteem happy and healthy. This might mean taking a weekly belly dancing class, art class, cooking class or other structured activity. At first, you may resist signing up for these activities. When we're not in a positive state of mind, it can be difficult to set the ball in motion to do something positive for ourselves.

You must be aware that it will be difficult to make that appointment and do it anyway! You'll feel great once you do! Then when the day comes for you to go to your class or appointment, be aware that you may want to procrastinate and push through that feeling. After you've gone to several classes or activities, you're much more likely to have developed a healthy habit that will keep you energized throughout the week.

Long Term Relapse Prevention Actions

One of the most important things that you can do for yourself is to build and nurture relationships with others in recovery. The people you meet can become lifetime friends that can see you through all of your ups and downs. Make it a point to continuously go to 12 Step meetings in your local area. Visit new meetings around town or in different areas of the country or the world to get fresh perspectives and meet new friends.

Many people who visit The Open Door relapse prevention center are in recovery and looking for ways to renew the passion in their life in a way that is constructive to the recovery process. Our 28-day recovery programs give women in recovery the opportunity to mentor women who are just beginning their journey.

Recovery Can Be A Rewarding Adventure!

Recovery can be an amazing and rewarding journey. You can learn to interpret the ups and downs of life can be an exciting experience and way to learn more about ourselves if we learn new ways of thinking.

Are you ready to build a relapse prevention plan that brings helps you to experience all of the joy and wonder that life has to offer? Contact us at (888) 404-7625 today to learn how to become your best self in recovery!