Addiction is all too common of a problem in the United States and around the world. Almost 21 million Americans struggle with one at least one addiction, yet only about 10% of them get treatment. Of those that do get treatment, many relapse.
Joseph A. Califano, Jr., founder of the National Center on Addiction and Substance stated that rehab centers have a 30% success rate with 70% to 80% of users relapsing by the 3-6 month marker.
So what are ways to prevent relapse and change these numbers? Read on to find out.
What Is Relapse?
Relapse is the recurrence of a past condition. It could refer to any disease. Addiction is a disease and patients relapse when they go back to using after going through periods of sobriety.
What Causes Relapse?
To come up with ways to prevent relapse, you must first look at why it happens. Relapse usually happens during the withdrawal phase or after rehab.
The withdrawal phase is the time when patients detox and allow their body to be cleansed of toxic substances. During this stage, they experience violent symptoms which can only be ‘cured’ if they start using again. Many of them turn to drugs and alcohol so they will feel better.
Relapse also happens after rehab. Once people return to the ‘real world’ they may see people they used to drink and use with and be tempted to go back to their old ways. They may drive by the local bar and have the urge to go in for a drink. They may be dealing with stressful situations and feel that drinking or using will be the only way to calm them down.
Different Ways to Prevent Relapse
Fortunately, there are ways to prevent relapse. Here are a few that are effectively integrated into the rehabilitation process.
Assisted Detox: Assisted detox is typically available in inpatient rehab facilities. After the patient is checked in, a medical professional supervises them during the process and provides them with medications to reduce symptoms. A staff member is there every step of the way to see to it that patients don’t relapse.
Inpatient Treatment: During inpatient treatment, therapists provide patients with healthy coping mechanisms that replace the need to use. They get to the root of the issues that drove patients to use and help them understand what led to their addiction and they suggest alternate methods for dealing with anger and stress.
Outpatient Treatment: Outpatient treatment occurs when patients return to the ‘real world’ after rehab. During this phase, they can work and be with their families. However, it is recommended that they continue treatment with a private therapist or by attending support groups like AA and NA to get the help they need in adjusting to sober living and maintaining sobriety.
How Atlanta Recovery Place Can Help
There are many treatment centers throughout the country that offer services that provide ways to prevent relapse and overcome addiction, but Atlanta Recovery Place is one of the most effective.
Atlanta Recovery Place takes a customized approach when it comes to treating clients. We consider every individuals’ background, social situation and length of abuse to find a plan that works best for them. We use a dual diagnosis treatment that focuses on addiction and its underlying cause getting to the root of harmful behavior. We offer a full spectrum of care from detox to outpatient treatment all in a soothing, clean environment.
Call Us Today at Atlanta Recovery Place – A Premier Outpatient Facility
Don’t let addiction deprive you of your happiness. Call Atlanta Recovery today and take the first step in getting help. Then look forward to a happier, healthier, higher quality way of living.