Avoiding Meth Relapse Can Save Your Life

Crystal meth addiction is dangerous and recovery is difficult. According to studies, relapse generally occurs between seven to 10 months post-rehab in approximately 80 percent of recovering addicts. This does not necessarily mean a relapse will lead to addiction but it makes it more likely given the highly addictive properties found in meth. There are ten steps an individual can take to avoid a relapse which might possibly save one’s life.

1. Make being drug free a priority. All else pales in comparison to being drug free. Addiction recovery is important for an individual and family, friends and coworkers. A career cannot exist if addiction is the primary aim, in fact, nothing will last long if relapse occurs and turns back into addiction.
2. Maintain distance from people, places or activities associated with drug use. Certain people or places can trigger a desire to use meth with temptation proving too much for some people. It is best to avoid them altogether.
3. Create an action plan. When temptation is unavoidable, have steps in place to know where to go, who to speak with or what to do in order to avoid relapse. A sponsor, mentor, friend or peer are good people to have on speed dial.
4. Exercise and eat healthy. Taking care of one’s body is important. Working out can build the body and mind as well as prepare it to handle stress more effectively. When a person is in good health, relapse is less likely to happen.
5. Practice spiritual self care. Focusing on obtaining drugs is a negative aspect of people’s lives. A positive aspect is to prepare one’s mind through spiritual exploration via books, meditation or other ways to encourage mindfulness and quiet time as self care.
6. Find new friends. Peer groups are a great way to build a support network. Not only are individuals in recovery great friends but pursuing new hobbies and activities with them helps build self esteem, confidence and trust for when temptation arises.
7. Aftercare treatment matters. Choose counseling, group therapy, personal therapy, 12-step meetings or other treatments to stay actively involved in a treatment process after rehab. This will reinforce dedication to recovery and the principles taught in rehab as they are relevant to life on the outside.
8. Don’t touch. Never allow any drug paraphernalia to pass through one’s hands. Staying clean and sober means no other illegal substances of any kind to help keep focused on recovery.
9. Make a life plan. With focus away from using crystal meth, dreams may come to the fore. Find a new job or place to live. Learn to spend time with kids, family or friends neglected during active addiction and create spaces for new hobbies to emerge. A plan for recovery includes small steps taken with great intention.
10. Celebrate! Any victory, no matter how small, should be celebrated. Whether it is avoiding relapse, acknowledging milestones in sobriety or creating a positive atmosphere for recovery, recognize them and celebrate wildly!

Meth addiction does not have to be fought alone. If you suspect yourself, a friend or family member needs help overcoming an addiction, contact Hired Power at 800-910-9299.

Trained counselors, therapists, and sober companions are available to answer questions and provide support.