As relapse statistics show, returning to drugs or alcohol is an unfortunate reality of being in recovery for many people. According to research done by a number of drug treatment centers, anywhere between 50% and 90% of people will end up relapsing. While these numbers are frightening, it isn’t a reason for you to give up on a sober lifestyle. Long-term recovery takes a lot of work. But, you CAN get there. Plenty of success stories exist out there, and there is no reason that you can’t be one of them!
Beating the Relapse Statistics
There are a number of things you can do to set yourself up for – and maintain – success in recovery. Not surprisingly, it all starts with your mind set. It is essential to be ready to get treatment, and have the desire to live a sober lifestyle. Forced or dreaded treatment leads to a slim chance at obtaining recovery. You need to want to get healthy and give it all that you have.
Many people try sobering up alone, which is extremely difficult and has a low success rate. The reasons why include the fact that when you sober up alone you have no support. Going through detox and withdrawal alone is scary and uncomfortable, and most people can’t make it through the process without going back to drinking or drugs. For this reason, seeking addiction treatment is the best first step to take. Administering a medication schedule throughout detox may provide comfort. You’ll also have the support of therapists and doctors around the clock.
While in treatment after detox, it is essential to make the most out of your time there. Be as open and honest about your addiction with your medical team as possible. They will be able to modify your treatment plan accordingly so that it best suits you. Soak in all of the information you can to set a strong foundation for the rest of your recovery.
Set Yourself Up for Success in Recovery
Relapse is frequent upon graduation of treatment. The reason behind this is that individuals return home and go right back to old habits. For this reason, it is crucial to have a long-term treatment plan developed while you are in treatment. Together with your case managers, you can identify relapse triggers and come up with a plan for success so that you don’t falter as soon as you leave your treatment center.
One big thing to consider is where you will live after rehab. Sober living homes are a great option for people who don’t have to return back to where they were living prior to treatment. Halfway homes allow you a greater sense of freedom while keeping you accountable. You’ll have a curfew, wake up at a certain hour, and keep your personal belongings clean. You’ll also be held accountable to finding a job within a reasonable period of time. These homes have a zero tolerance policy when it comes to drugs and alcohol. So, administered drug tests keep residents accountable for their own actions. Over all, these houses are a great way to transition back into the “real” world.
Finding Support in Recovery from Addiction
Another thing is the people you surround yourself with in recovery. If you immediately go back to your old drinking buddies, you are more likely to pick up a drink. Same goes with drugs. Even though those people may have seemed like good friends at a certain point in your life, if they don’t support your recovery, it is time to distance yourself. They may not be as aware of relapse statistics as you are, and moreover, they may not care. Instead, surround yourself with people who support your new sober lifestyle, and other people in recovery who can help guide you and help you make the best decisions.
Finally, always remember that your sobriety needs to be a priority. Go to 12-step meetings regularly to keep it on the forefront of your mind. Try to incorporate it into everything you do, so that you don’t get derailed. Avoid becoming one of the relapse statistics by staying committed and putting recovery first. Good things will continue to happen and doors will open as long as you can hang on to your sobriety.
