Addiction is a complex mental health disorder that is treatable through various behavioral, medical, and holistic therapies. The risk of relapse is extremely high during the early stages of addiction recovery and never completely goes away. Relapse prevention therapy helps patients realize the continual dangers of relapse and how to prevent them from happening after completing recovery. People who practice healthy living and continue talking with a therapist after recovery are more likely to avoid relapsing.
At 7 Summit Pathways, we help individuals from all walks of life who are struggling with an addiction to alcohol, cocaine, heroin, or other dangerous substances. Our treatment center offers a full-time team of therapists and medical staff who will do everything they can to support your recovery experience. Our programs utilize the latest in behavioral therapies and medication-assisted treatments, along with holistic therapies that promote a healthy and sober lifestyle. If you are searching for specialty services near Tampa, FL, consider 7 Summit Pathways and call 813.212.7149 today to speak with our friendly team.
What Is Relapse Prevention Therapy?
Addiction is a chronic illness that creates intense cravings for the substance of choice. Even if a person wants to quit and is aware of the harm they are causing, oftentimes, they are powerless to resist. Drug and alcohol abuse can cause a chemical dependence where your body cannot function properly without a steady supply of drugs or alcohol. It stops the natural production of dopamine and will cause significant withdrawal symptoms that can include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Muscle aches and pains
- Stomach cramping
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Paranoia
- Intense drug or alcohol cravings
Relapse prevention therapy teaches patients about the risks of relapse and the various emotional, physical, and mental stages that lead up to it. It teaches them what the biggest factors are that can lead to relapse and how to prevent them from interfering with their sobriety.
At 7 Summit Pathways, we work hard to make sure you have everything you need to reach your recovery goals. During admissions, we go over your treatment program with you and answer any questions you have, including what is relapse prevention therapy and what types of medication we use.
What to Expect from a Relapse Prevention Therapy Program
Participating in a relapse prevention therapy program is essential for maintaining sobriety after completing recovery and long into the future. Addictive symptoms can return at any time to threaten your sobriety, even years after completing recovery. The skills you learn during relapse prevention therapy will give you the confidence to handle any future cravings or temptations, no matter how severe they are.
Here is what you can expect from a relapse prevention therapy program:
- Addiction education – An important part of recovery is learning about how addictive drugs and alcohol are and the physical and psychological harm they can cause. You will learn about the dangers of addiction and how it can change your behavior and personality as well as lead to serious physical and mental harm.
- The stages of relapse – During relapse prevention therapy, you will learn about the three stages of relapse:
- Emotional – Individuals in the first stage of relapse will not always feel cravings for drugs or alcohol, but they are neglecting their self-care and not using their coping skills to process emotions or traumatic memories. Signs that a person is going through this stage include isolating themselves, insomnia, and poor eating habits.
- Mental – This stage includes increasingly strong cravings for drugs or alcohol and returning thoughts or feelings that can trigger the abuse. They focus on past experiences with addiction and the pleasurable experiences it created. They begin believing they can use again without serious consequences.
- Physical – The last stage of relapse includes drug and alcohol abuse that can quickly spiral out of control and lead to an overdose, coma, or death.
- Relapse prevention tips – After understanding the different stages of relapse, therapists will teach you healthy ways to prevent relapsing, including healthy eating and nutrition, yoga and exercise, surrounding yourself with sober friends, and continuing therapy until you feel confident in maintaining your sobriety.
Relapse rates after completing addiction recovery are between 40-60%. Enrolling in relapse prevention therapy can greatly reduce this risk, especially for those whose addiction stems from social anxiety, PTSD, or other types of mental health disorders.
Specialty Services in Tampa at 7 Summit Pathways
At 7 Summit Pathways, we work closely with men and women from all walks of life who are struggling with addiction to heroin, prescription opioids, cannabis, and other addictive substances. Our family-like residence provides a secure and comfortable environment where you will participate in group and private therapy sessions and learn new coping skills to confidently beat your addiction.
To learn more about our relapse prevention therapy and other specialty services, contact us at 813.212.7149 today to schedule a tour and meet our friendly team.