Relapse prevention helps you plan ahead to manage stress and high-risk situations, to prevent a return to using substance or gambling. Relapse prevention includes developing new healthy ways of coping and connecting to community resources for support. Addressing physical, mental, and social needs are important components of recovery. If you have a slip, relapse prevention skills can help you get back on track.
Alberta Health Services has more information and tips on their site Relapse Prevention – Planning for Success which includes:
- understanding relapse
- tips to avoid relapse
- stress management
- managing cravings
- resources
- identifying and handling high risk situations
- handling relapse
Another resource to support wellness and recovery is the My Self Care Journey Workbook. Choosing to practice healthy habits each day leads to better physical and mental health. This journal helps you to intentionally tune in to your lifestyle choices and provides a guide for making positive changes. Start with the Life Balance Wheel to reflect on your lifestyle habits and changes you want to make.
The following services can help connect you to community resources:
- Recovery Access Alberta supports Albertans by offering a centralized access point to a province-wide addiction treatment matching tool
- The Addiction and Mental Health Help Line is a 24 hour, 7 day a week confidential service that provides support, information and referrals to Albertans experiencing addiction and mental health concerns, including problem gambling. Call 1-866-332-2322 (toll free within Alberta)
- 211 is a helpline and online database of Alberta’s community and social services