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Writer's pictureMichael Leptic, PhD

Relapse Prevention is a Lifetime Battle

The process of addiction treatment and recovery is quite arduous and an ongoing battle for people. Moreover, I would argue that treatment and recovery are two separate processes that require different approaches, as treatment is the process of ceasing dependence, and recovery is one’s integration back into society and long-term abstinence from substance use (and abuse). In the recovery process, addiction is something that individuals will battle for the rest of their lives, including the potential for relapse. It is reported that “60% of people relapse within the first three months of leaving treatment, which is considered the highest risk for using substances post-treatment” (Perkinson, 2017, p. 125), and 85% relapse within one year (Sinha, 2011).


The aspect of addiction recovery is a critical part of the long-term success of treatment modalities, leading to one’s abstinence. Melemis (2015) indicated that relapse is a gradual process, which can be deterred through the following four pillars:

1. Recognizing and acting on the early warning signs of relapse

2. Embrace personal growth, including the setbacks

3. Alter negative thinking, including the inclusion of relevant and healthy coping skills

4. Educational awareness, focusing on the importance of one’s self-care


These identified pillars are not all-inclusive; however, they are a guide to assist individuals with recovery. Peer recovery programs must be prioritized so specialists can closely monitor individuals for some time, depending on their unique needs. Further, since relapse vulnerability is higher within the first year, peer recovery specialists should monitor individuals for at least a year or more to promote support, deterrence, and long-term sobriety.


At this point, there is no right or wrong answer, which is why addiction research continues. I am confident that there will be a breakthrough in the future, but until then, we need to work together and #BeTheChange.


References

Melemis, S., (2015). Relapse prevention and the five rules of recovery. Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine, 88, 325–332.

Perkinson, R. (2017). Chemical dependency counseling: A practical guide (5th ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications, Inc.

Sinha, R., (2011). New findings on biological factors predicting addiction relapse vulnerability. Current Psychiatry Reports, 13(5), 398–405.

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