Relapse Prevention: Know the Triggers and Warning Signs

Triggers-and-Warning-SignsDrug and/or alcohol addiction is a very serious condition that requires a serious commitment to maintain sobriety. Whether you have been in recovery for several weeks or many years, it is vital that you understand the various triggers that may jeopardize your recovery. In addition, you also should know the different relapse warning signs, so you know when to reach out for additional help.

 

Know Your Triggers

One of the most common triggers that drug and alcohol addicts struggle with is seeing friends, going to places or attending events that were common during their addiction. Just being around these old friends or being at places where you use to use can be a trigger and should be avoided as much as possible. Exposure to drugs and alcohol also can be a trigger. You should avoid going to bars or parties where you know drugs or alcohol will be present. Just seeing or smelling drugs or alcohol can cause a relapse.

Everyone has their own personal triggers based on their past addiction, it is critical that you explore these triggers with a trained addiction counselor at one of our carefully vetted addiction treatment centers in Philadelphia or out-of-state partner locations. This will help you to avoid situations that may hinder your path of sobriety.

Understanding the Warning Signs

If you are someone you love is in recovery, it is important that you regularly look for warning signs that may suggest a relapse or that relapse is imminent. Below is a look at the most common relapse warning signs.

    • Depression
    • Isolation
    • Anxiety
    • Too Much/Too Little Sleep
    • Stop Going to Support Meetings
    • Resuming Old Negative Behaviors
    • Lying
    • Easily Angered or Irritated
    • Thinking about Drugs or Alcohol
    • Self-Pity
    • Missing Work / Lose of Job
    • Overconfident About Recovery
    • Avoiding Sponsor and Accountability Partners
    • Secretive Behavior
    • Sudden Change in Behavior
    • Suicidal Thoughts

While these signs do not mean that the person has definitely relapsed, they do indicate a problem. If you are experiencing one or more of the signs above or you know someone who is, it is extremely important that you seek out help from a trained addiction counselor immediately, by reaching out to us so that we can place you in the best addiction treatment centers in Philadelphia or one of our vetted centers nearest you. This will help you maintain your sobriety or to start back down the road to recovery. Call us today and get the help you need!

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