Have you recently fought and gotten over a drug addiction? The challenge now is to prevent a relapse. It doesn't matter what drug you overcame - marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin — relapsing is a common problem for any addict. Onlinedrugclass.com encourages you to take an online drug class to learn in greater detail about avoiding relapse, but you can start here:
In order to keep from using drugs again after a period of abstinence relapsing, you can take several pro-active measures. Ultimately, avoiding relapse requires a change in thinking and a change in lifestyle. You may need to avoid anyone you used drugs with and find healthier people who are committed to their sobriety. Staying sober is a new way of being, especially if you've depended on drugs for a long time. Here are some basic steps to avoid relapse.
This first tip is important, especially for those who have recently stopped using drugs. You must avoid places, events, and people where you may be tempted to use drugs. Eliminate anyplace or situation where you will have access to drugs - even if it means getting a different job. In an effort to avoid toxic people from your past, you may even have to change your phone number and contact information.
Write down your goals and reasons for quitting drugs on a piece of paper and sign it. Title this document: "My Commitment to my Sobriety". Carry this paper with you. If you ever feel tempted, take it out and read what you wrote. Sign it again before doing anything destructive and stay committed to your goals.
Quitting drugs is not easy, but staying off them can be a separate challenge. It is critical to find a group of supportive people who will help you when you are feeling vulnerable and weak. Some people turn to NA (narcotics anonymous) to be with other going through the same thing. Support groups offer new friends who understand what you are going through and people in different stages of recovery that can share their stories and wisdom. Friends, family members or counselors might also be willing to help. It's important to surround yourself with healthy people who care about your best interests and have someone to call upon if you feel you are slipping.
Create a daily schedule that is healthy and rewarding. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time for meetings and treatment, if necessary. Keep it simple and doable (no need to be over busy and stressed out). Make sure you get exercise daily and prepare healthy meals for yourself. If you can, do something creative every day whether it's photography, writing, painting, decorating, music, etc.
Though you want to avoid relapsing, it's important to know that if you do relapse, you're not weak. Many people relapse many times. Knowing this may help you stay strong. Tell yourself that you can do this. When you feel weak, have a safety plan. Call a friend, take a walk, bake some cookies for your neighbors. Do your best to make smart and healthy decisions. Remember, you can always start an online drug class if you feel yourself slipping.
