When interventions are successful, a process of Bay Area recovery is started. It is vital that some support network exists and that the network provides positive encouragement for the recovering addict. For a person going through relapse, a change in mindset is needed. Relapsing is not a sign of failure. It is a sign that current treatment methods need to be tweaked or changed so that the abuse can stop again. Around half of people who enter rehab will relapse at some point, whether in two weeks or 30 years, the point is to be available and help where and how you can.
Find the best course of treatment (and stick to it!)
This will often be done by the Medical Detox / drug rehab program; however, it is vital to help the recovering person to stick to the schedule. More so, if the treatment is not as effective as desired, you as a loved one are often one of the first to notice any regression in the addicts’ behavior. Being alert to changes in behavior and mood can often head off an ‘’episode’’.
A change of lifestyle
Finding out what caused it is the first step to long-term recovery. For some recovering addicts, it was often people or places that would trigger the need for whatever drug they were abusing. Reducing these triggers as much as possible exponentially increases the likely success of a rehab regime. Reducing the triggers is one thing, however, situations will arise naturally where the recovering abuser will be tempted to use drugs again. In these situations, being available to distract or help the person may be vital, at the same time you could also help take them to get more professional help if needed.
Prepare for the worst.
Hope for the best but prepare for the worst. Accept that relapse may happen and have a plan for if/when it does. Having a plan of action that the person in recovery agrees to is also just as important, often the abuser will recognize that they will not be in ‘’headspace’’ to make rational decisions. It may even be necessary to have ‘’power of attorney’’ for the person assigned to you, though this is only done in exceptional circumstances.
Be there!
Most importantly is that you make yourself available! Having a proper support network is vital to a person’s recovery. Every recovering addict will have moments of weakness, getting involved can often be the difference between a bad few days and a death spiral back to addiction. Knowing that others care for them and are willing to help with their problems can make all the difference to an abuser in the internal fight between substance dependence and the desire to be drug-free. Call Summit Estate at 800.701.6997 to learn how we can help you win that battle.