Focus On Health For Relapse Prevention

focus on health for relapse prevention

When you focus on health for relapse prevention, you create new and healthier pathways in your brain. Suddenly you have new things to think about and new tasks to fulfill. Relapse prevention doesn’t mean just staying away from your drug, or behavior, of choice. Just like recovering from injuries, or a devastating loss, getting back on your feet from a setback or addiction isn’t a quick process. It requires a lot of work and support to get over any kind of dependence. Coping with withdrawal symptoms at first makes self care and health care even more important. Remember, your first step is always to seek help from professionals.

Good health are key tools you need for lasting recovery

Relapse means returning to your old unhealthy habits after a period of abstinence. It could also be the return of an old injury or health condition after you’ve begun to heal. Of course, no one wants to experience a relapse of any kind. So it’s vital to know that everyone goes through the same process to restore their lives and wellbeing. For many people relapse occurs when they become isolated and can’t connect with people who can help them find new ways to lift their mood and improve their health. It’s common for people who are isolated and alone to feel the only way they can numb their pain is to use drugs or alcohol.

When you focus on health for relapse prevention you’re taking positive and lasting action

Are you trying to change an old behavior? If you’re struggling to recover from any issue or behavioral problem, paying attention to your health sets a new mood and intention. Using tools for a healthier life develop the skills you need to restore your wellbeing. Focusing on health means taking the time to improve both your physical and emotional health. Establishing healthy habits makes you feel better, and paying attention to your emotions can make the recovery process not just bearable, but also enjoyable. 

Focusing on your health for relapse prevention also means creating the support system and team of people and professionals you need to stay on track. No one can recover alone. That’s a proven fact. It takes a village for recovery to take hold and become your new way of living. Your support team (including family and friends) reassures you that even the tiniest steps you take are exactly what you need to move forward. One way to find the support necessary for long term recovery is in community-based housing that can provide assistance and support with other people experiencing the same journey. 

Tools to focus on health include exercise, good nutrition, and emotional awareness

If you’re experiencing pain, whether emotional or physical, or cravings, exercise significantly boosts your mood and helps in managing pain and stress. Eating healthy foods provide the necessary nutrients to heal your body after years of substance use. Good nutrition also works to heal your brain function and lift your mood. You can recover faster and feel good by eliminating toxins from long term substance use as well as the rollercoaster sugar highs and lows of a poor diet. Sleep is another recovery essential.

Emotional health is becoming aware of your feelings and triggers

Start journaling to identify what makes you angry, what hurts your feelings, what triggers you to act out or look for old pain relievers. Journaling is one of the very best tools for developing a healthy lifestyle that prevents relapse and insures long term recovery. When you become aware of your reactions and relationship problems related to addiction, you’ll be able to start making some changes that can improve the way you relate to others. You’ll also recognize the source of your dependence and have the ability to identify your triggers. For instance, you may unconsciously tempt yourself by always being around people who enable your habits. If you remove yourself from an environment that constantly pressures you to harm your health, you’ll find it easier to recover and stay clean.  

Self care is another way to focus on health

Practicing self-care gives you the control you lost and brings back pleasure. You can also distract yourself by doing activities you used enjoy, like reading, painting, listening to music or retuning to old hobbies. Keeping your mind and body active will keep your attention focused on the positive. You can also practice yoga or meditation. Paying attention to your health and insuring that you’re doing your best to maintain your mental and physical condition can significantly make your recovery process more manageable and prevent the chances of a relapse.