The term “Meth Relapse” describes when a person returns to using the substance after abstaining for a period of time, for example after finishing a drug rehabilitation program. Even if a person only uses meth once after several weeks of self-restraint, it is still considered a relapse because the goal of substance abuse treatment is complete abstinence from drugs. The frequency of consumption of meth by people in recovery determines their relapse rate. Those with chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, asthma, and high blood pressure experience similar relapse rates as those with methamphetamine use. Because of this, many mental health and addiction experts believe that treating meth addiction is an ongoing process that requires treatment, effort, and support.
Relapse isn’t an indication that recovery has failed or that the individual cannot quit using meth. Relapse statistics demonstrate that the treatment process does not eliminate the possibility of relapse. According to them, relapse suggests that the patient has not yet discovered the root cause of their drug abuse.
The Advantages of Preventing Methamphetamine Relapse
Relapse prevention for methamphetamine is aimed at assisting the individual in preparing for high-risk scenarios that are likely to result in lapse and relapse. Internal (mood states, drug-related ideas, etc.) or external (drug-related thoughts, etc.) high-risk scenarios can arise (interpersonal or other environmental stressors).
The significant relapse rate among people trying to quit methamphetamine backs up the importance of relapse prevention management in methamphetamine treatment. Between 35 and 60% of methamphetamine users who enroll in publicly sponsored inpatient or outpatient treatment programs relapse, with up to 36% relapsing within the first six months. The following have been linked to an increased risk of relapse in studies on meth:
- Shorter period of treatment
- Methamphetamine is readily available.
- Lack of confidence in one’s own abilities.
- A lack of enthusiasm.
- An inability to cope.
How to Make a Relapse Prevention Strategy Work
Relapse prevention entails maximizing your strength while minimizing any threats to your abstinence. You will need a relapse prevention plan to prevent relapses, which is a set of options or steps to follow if you are at risk of relapsing.
There are times when people doubt themselves or have bad days when they consider using meth again. You can use a relapse prevention plan to deal with those thoughts and feelings in a way that keeps you on track and keeps you strong. The following strategies are effective in preventing relapse:
- Making a list of triggers, such as specific feelings, people and places
- Craving-control options
- Mental, emotional, and physical well-being activities and tools
- Making a list of local 12-step groups where you can go if you feel compelled to relapse.
- To cope with stress and everyday challenges, you may enjoy exercising, yoga, meditation, hobbies, or working on worksheets.
- Creating a list that reminds you why you’re battling for sobriety, including your passions, the things you’re grateful for, and people you care about.
You will likely change your relapse prevention plan over time as you meet new people, learn more about yourself, discover new hobbies, and learn new strategies to stay strong.
Seek Quality Help At Taylor Recovery Center
At our Houston, Texas treatment center, we have a team of highly trained specialists that will be there for you every step of the way. Taylor Recovery Center’s meth addiction specialists are ready to assist you with your addiction and support you on your journey to recovery.
