Successful completion of dual diagnosis treatment is an achievement in itself. However, the current results do not assure a long-term stability and there are a number of reasons that would result in relapse. The risk of relapse is persistent for weeks, months or years followed after the completion of treatment, especially in case of dual diagnosis where the mental illness can any time reinforce a person to take drugs or vice-versa.
To prevent an individual from falling back as well as eliminate the risk of self harm it is important for an individual to follow a professional aftercare program. Usually, dual diagnosis treatment centers offer a strategically planned aftercare program to each individual depending upon the specific condition that they have recently recovered from.
The personalized approach towards the aftercare program makes a significant effect on the success of the treatment. The aftercare program must be developed keeping in mind the various recovery patterns that you exhibited and the type of treatment that was the most effective.
Relapse prevention: the ultimate aftercare plan
It is common in people with dual diagnosis to feel tempted towards their addiction. Those dealing with depression, social anxiety or stress are more likely to use drug or alcohol to overcome the problem even after a complete rehab treatment. Thus, relapse prevention is a crucial aspect of aftercare program that helps an individual maintains its sobriety. Here are the important elements of an ideal relapse prevention program:
- Know your triggers:
Substance abuse is triggered by a number of elements including social, behavioral, and psychological factors. Any situation that makes you uncomfortable, nervous or too emotional can make to jump to your addiction all over again. It is important that you realize what your triggers are and pay attention to preventing them from pushing you back to ground zero.
- Coping with the situations:
You may face situations that you never expected and which makes you vulnerable both emotionally and psychologically. It is a must that you prepares a coping mechanism for such situations where you can handle the stress and cravings successfully.
- Consider the outcomes of relapse:
You must have a had a tough time dealing with the dual diagnosis and the treatment phase itself was one tough battle to fight. Whenever you feel like relapsing, recall the tough time you faced and suppress your temptations.
- Manage even if you slip:
It is acceptable to have a minor slip after a successful dual diagnosis treatment but preventing this slip from turning into a relapse is important. As soon as you realize nervous situations, you must take necessary steps to prevent relapse and cope with the situation.
Ideal rehab for dual diagnosis program develops aftercare programs that not only help the individual but also set guidelines for the family to support the individual. Recovering dual diagnosis is a task that needs constant counseling and ultimate support from the family and friends. Support from the family plays a significant role as it prevents a person from relapsing and going through the same circumstances all over again.
Some reputed rehab for dual diagnosis also offers professional relapse prevention program that makes it much easier for the individual to stick to his sobriety.