Relapse Support Groups

One of the more disappointing realities of overcoming painkiller abuse is that it can be difficult to remain clean. Indeed, the National Institutes of Health report that the chances of remaining clean after going through a substance abuse recovery program are one in 35. That means that with every 35 people who complete some sort of painkiller abuse recovery, only one of them will remain clean. That means that the odds are stacked against you to a certain degree if you want to stay clean after going through substance abuse counseling.

Reasons that people relapse into substance abuse

Unfortunately, an addiction is very hard to truly overcome. Painkiller abuse may be beat initially, but any recovering addict knows that the cravings don’t just disappear. Indeed, it is quite likely that you will be fighting cravings and the temptation to relapse for years. This is why it is so important to find a support system that can help you. Here are some of the reasons that people relapse back into painkiller abuse:

• Lifestyle: Some people do not change their lifestyle habits and behaviors. This can lead to a relapse of painkiller abuse. The problem is that if you return to the lifestyle that was yours while you were abusing painkillers, it will be easier slip back in. It is vital that you make lifestyle changes to reflect your new priorities. That way, it might be easier to resist the cravings.
• Environment: A lifestyle change also indicates a change to where you go and whom you associate with. You may hate to leave your old friends behind, but if they are still abusing painkillers and other substances, then you may not have a choice. It is vital that you cut off associations with those who do not wish to change as you have. Exposing yourself to environments in which you know that you will be compromised only makes your situation more difficult.
• Medical issues: One of the most dangerous things for someone who has a history of painkiller abuse is an injury. It is very easy to move from taking pain medications as directed to becoming dependent on them again. If you are injured, make sure that your health care provider understands your concerns as someone who formerly abused painkillers.
• Lack of support: Support at this time is critical. Recovering addicts need a system of people that can help them and provide them with adequate support. Without friends and family to provide encouragement and distraction, it can be easy to slip back into old habits.

Support groups for recovery painkiller abuse

One think you can do to help shore up your support system is to join a support group. Relapse support groups help those who are in danger of succumbing to addictions again. These support groups provide the opportunity to share their feelings with those who can understand them. Additionally, it can be a good way to make new friends who want to support you - and who you can support.

Relapse support groups can be found in many cities and towns. You can check with the local community center, or even the local library, to find out about possible meetings. If you are receiving counseling, your psychologist or psychiatrist can probably recommend some resources for you to use. In many cases, having access to a support group can really help you avoid falling back into old drug abuse patterns.