Posted in Suboxone Addiction, Suboxone Treatment

Suboxone Relapse

Learning and understanding relapse prevention is key to long-lasting sobriety. One must be intentional about making necessary life changes and proactive about identifying trigger points that can intensify a drug craving. This is a step in recovery that is sometimes overlooked or not weighed heavily in the process. Relapse prevention is imperative to any person desiring full sobriety.

How Drug Relapse Occurs

Statistics say that 80% of users will relapse at some point during their recovery process. It is important to be educated about the triggers of relapse and be aware of potential pitfalls. If one is not prepared for a possible relapse, it can happen easily. Rehab to stop Suboxone abuse is not the “end all, be all” of the process of recovery. It’s certainly a major part, but one is not “healed” after being released. This is a dangerous misconception that can leave one susceptible to strong temptations to use again when one visits familiar environments associated with drug use. Many people feel a sense of superiority over the addiction and believe they can now control their drug impulses; they think that being around people who use is not an issue. This can even lead them to use Suboxone sparingly because they believe they know how to quit using. This kind of behavior and thinking can really set a user up for failure. Reviving old habits, being in old places and situations, hanging with old drug-using friends are the easiest ways to relapse.

Learning how to deal and manage stress will be vital to the process. Many people turn to drugs like Suboxone to avoid confronting their pain or emotions. Relationships suddenly become more difficult, and personal expectations during recovery can become too high, and therefore unbearable. Individuals must learn that recovery comes one step at a time.

Relapse Prevention Plan

A drug relapse prevention plan should be part of any effective treatment process. It is a guide for the individual that provides helpful and healthy tips on managing life without Suboxone. A prevention plan will address the following aspects:

How to seek help from an experienced peer
Relaxation skills to reduce anxiety
How to develop alternative activities
How to avoid situations of known danger
Alternative coping methods of dealing with negative emotional states
How to reward yourself
How to pay attention to diet
Exercises to reduce mood swings