Unfortunately, relapse rates for individuals who enter a drug or alcohol treatment program are high. Forty to 60 percent of people relapse within the first 30 days of treatment – and up to 85 percent relapse in the first year. We report this not to scare you but rather to prepare you for the hard work you’ll have to do. Drug rehab in Agoura Hills is not an end-all-be-all to addiction.

As you develop healthy habits, grow a supportive network of friends, eliminate triggers and become stronger in your recovery, your risk for relapse will decrease. But until then, you must be extremely diligent with your recovery. And to do this, you’ll need to identify your triggers and avoid them as much as possible. 

Here are five of the most common reasons why people relapse. 

1. Withdrawal 

Withdrawal is a difficult process. We do not recommend going through it alone because you’re more likely to be unsuccessful. A medically supervised detox program has access to medications and therapies to manage your symptoms. Also, it’s important to be aware that post-acute withdrawal symptoms can last up to 18 months. Continuing with therapy will help you manage these symptoms. 

2. Poor Mental Health

Substance abuse is a problem in itself, but there are often underlying issues as well. If these issues aren’t addressed, it’s like putting a bandaid on the problem. Eventually, the need to use drugs and alcohol will surface again and put you at risk for relapse. Dual diagnosis treatment in Agoura addresses both the substance abuse and mental health problem. By treating both, you can achieve long-lasting recovery. 

3. Toxic People 

Individuals who abuse drugs and alcohol generally surround themselves with others who do the same thing. Breaking free of these friendships can be difficult, especially when you return home and want a feeling of normalcy. Unfortunately, being around people who engage in substance abuse can trigger a relapse. Instead, you need to build a social circle with peers who are sober and accountable. 

4. Lack of Self-Care

Self-care is an important part of the recovery process. By practicing good self-care, you’ll feel better about yourself and show others how you want to be treated. Additionally, when you care about your body, you’re more likely to eat well, exercise daily and get enough rest. These are all effective ways to feel good and decrease feelings of stress, anxiety, irritability and low mood. 

5. Boredom and Isolation 

When you return home from addiction treatment in Agoura, you’ll likely feel that you have a lot of time on your hands. If you don’t fill this time with constructive activities, you’ll end up feeling bored and isolated – a major trigger for relapse. While you don’t need to be busy every second of the day, you should create a healthy routine that prevents boredom. 

Knowing the most common triggers can help you plan for a safe and healthy return home. Triggers are all around so you probably can’t avoid them completely, but it’s extremely helpful when you can get rid of some of them. To start your journey to addiction recovery, contact our treatment center in Agoura Hills today.