When you are working on your sobriety, remember that the process takes time. While you can go to a supervised detox facility and remove substances from your body in a few days, the real work begins after detox. It will benefit you to engage in drug addiction counseling, peer support groups in the community, and to develop a series of relapse prevention strategies to help you stay sober. Recovery happens over time. You will learn from your peers, and you will be able to talk through difficult times with a mental health counselor. As you meet others who are in recovery, will learn that it is possible with the right support.

How Mental Health Counseling Helps

A counselor is going to be beneficial to you in your recovery in a number of ways. You will develop a relationship with a professional who understands how to support you but who is not personally involved in your situation. You will be able to talk about your issues in a confidential setting, and you will have a person you can trust with your deepest secrets. Counseling provides you with professional support that is neutral and productive.

Community Meetings for Relapse Prevention

An important way to prevent a relapse is to get to know others who are their own program of recovery. This is done by going to meetings such as AA/NA and listening to others tell their stories. When you pay attention and get to know other people, these individuals will become part of your support network over time. Peer support is one of the most productive ways to prevent a relapse. People in recovery are going to be able to understand you better than those who aren't in a program.

Getting Back Into Your Recovery

Remember that relapse is often part of an overall recovery program. While you can try new exercise programs, calling a friend, or learning mindfulness for stress reduction, a relapse may occur. If you find yourself relapsed, don't beat yourself up. Go back to the strategies you know and talk this over with your drug addiction counselor. You may be able to learn different techniques that help you remain sober.

Relapse prevention strategies can change over time. What works for you in early recovery may not be as effective after some time. Always try to learn from others and work on ways to keep your stress under control. When you work with a counselor and talk about what is going on, you will have the support you need to strengthen your recovery process. Find a drug addiction counseling service like Sharon O'Connell, MA near you to get started.