Stress increases as the individual withdraws from support systems and obsesses about returning to drug use. Frustration, despair, embarrassment, and feelings of hopelessness all occur. Irresistible cravings and urges lead to obtainment and use of drugs. The individual relapses. The development of relapse prevention is essential to the treatment process.
Most relapse episodes stem from ignorance about addiction and relapse.
The individual's history, personality, the types of problems he is experiencing, family involvement, and anticipation of relapse warning signs must all be taken into account. Once these areas are identified and examined, early intervention and prevention of future relapse can be planned for. Relapse prevention planning can be accomplished in a variety of treatment environments, such as inpatient or outpatient programs. Recovering individuals become involved in individual or group counseling, and structured support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous. He is knowledgeable of warning signs and has a plan of action should these signs develop.