Drug Relapse Prevention Addiction can be an ongoing struggle for many people, even after they complete an intensive treatment program; periodic relapses are not uncommon. Relapse-prevention planning is crucial, then, for maintaining long-term sobriety. In its simplest terms, relapse occurs when you have abstained from using drugs for any period of time and then use again. This use may be a brief, one-time lapse in abstinence, which is often called a slip, or it may be a binge that involves using drugs in large amounts or repeatedly. In either situation, relapse does not mean you cannot get back on the road to recovery. However, it may indicate that underlying issues are not being managed effectively or that you could benefit from recommitting yourself to your sobriety. The first six months of recovery is when a large percentage of relapses occur—studies demonstrate that between 66% to 80% of relapses occur in the first 6 months after treatment. Relapses can be motivated or influenced by changes made previously to the brain during active drug use, or by the experience of uncomfortable feelings, pain, stress, or a combination of these factors. With this in mind, creating a solid drug relapse-prevention plan before you leave inpatient treatment is a great proactive step to protect your sobriety.
The first six months of recovery is when a large percentage of relapses occur—studies demonstrate that between 66% to 80% of relapses occur in the first 6 months after treatment.
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