Relapse Prevention Programs in Tallahassee – (850) 290-5955

Treatment for drug and alcohol addiction often does not shift its focus to relapse prevention programs until toward the end of the initial stages of treatment. However, relapse prevention programs are still a core part of any effective route to recovery. Here at Drug Detox Centers Tallahassee, we believe that without the help of relapse prevention programs, most addicts would enjoy the benefits of treatment for only a short time before returning to their addictive behaviors. For that reason, we place a great emphasis on relapse prevention as a part of a holistic approach to addiction treatment.

The Goals of Relapse Prevention Programs

Clearly, relapse prevention programs are designed and implemented for the purpose of helping people sustain their recovery from addiction by staying drug and alcohol-free. Relapse prevention programs go deeper than that, however, which can come as a surprise to some people.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse maintains that rates of addiction relapse are similar to rates of relapse from heart disease and diabetes. In light of that, Drug Detox Centers Tallahassee considers it vital for relapse prevention programs to incorporate contingencies for relapse. In other words, while the ultimate goal is to prevent relapse, we also think it is important to take a realistic view on the likelihood of all individuals remaining free of addictive behaviors and plan accordingly.

Methods of Relapse Prevention

Relapse prevention programs incorporate many techniques and strategies. Most of these revolve around the goal of developing an individual’s ability to manage stress effectively, deal with cravings, and stay motivated. One of the ways in which this is achieved involves teaching about the mechanics of relapse.

Frequently, relapse occurs as a three-stage event, where full-fledged relapse is preceded by stages of emotional and mental relapse. Emotional relapse is brought on by the presence of a negative emotional state such as anger, fear, or frustration than has the potential to trigger addictive behavior. Mental relapse is when the desire to engage in the addictive behavior becomes conscious, often even tempting the individual to plan his or her relapse with careful consideration. Educating people in recovery about this process can cause them to be alerted at the onset of emotional or mental relapse and seek help before it results in physical regression.

Other methods of relapse prevention include treatments that are intended to increase self-awareness and self-confidence, and the facilitation of ongoing therapy such as in peer support groups. At Drug Detox Centers Tallahassee, we also offer connections to numerous other services that are designed to play a part in relapse prevention as well as in the re-integration of recovering individuals into societal and vocational roles. These can include vocational guidance, legal assistance, placement in sober living facilities, and more.

If you are interested in finding out more about relapse prevention, or more about our specific programs, just give Drug Detox Centers Tallahassee a call today at (850) 290-5955.