Preventing and Addressing Recurrence of Symptoms as a Community

Introduction

This tutorial aims to provide a comprehensive guide on preventing and addressing the recurrence of symptoms related to substance use within a community setting. Based on insights from Erin Helms, Executive Director of The Woodrow Project, this guide outlines key strategies for understanding relapse, developing effective recovery plans, and fostering a supportive environment for residents in recovery.

Step 1: Understand Relapse

• Define what relapse means within the context of your recovery home.
• Recognize that relapse can happen and should be viewed as a potential part of the recovery journey, not a failure.

Step 2: Discuss Relapse with Residents

• Foster open conversations about the nature of relapse.
• Address expectations regarding relapse before residents move in, ensuring they understand community policies.

Step 3: Develop Recovery and Relapse Prevention Plans

• Create individualized recovery plans for each resident.
• Incorporate relapse prevention strategies into these plans, including:
  • Identifying personal triggers.
  • Establishing coping mechanisms for cravings.

Step 4: Recognize Stages of Relapse

• Educate residents about the stages of relapse, which may include:
  • Emotional relapse: feelings of stress or anxiety without substance use.
  • Mental relapse: thoughts about using substances.
  • Physical relapse: actual substance use.
• Discuss common warning signs that may indicate a potential relapse.

Step 5: Create Emergency Response Plans

• Set and communicate emergency plans to ensure safety and preparedness in the community.
• Encourage residents to participate in developing these plans to foster a sense of ownership.

Step 6: Utilize House Meetings for Accountability

• Hold regular house meetings to discuss personal responsibilities and community expectations regarding relapse.
• Use these meetings as a platform to share experiences and support each other.

Step 7: Help Residents Identify Triggers

• Work with each resident to help them recognize their individual triggers for cravings.
• Encourage the development of distraction techniques for when cravings arise, such as engaging in hobbies or physical activities.

Step 8: Implement the Critical Time Intervention Model

• Use this model to provide focused support during critical times when relapse risks are heightened.
• Engage residents in planning their schedules to incorporate structured activities and check-ins.

Step 9: Promote Self-Care and Wellness

• Discuss the eight dimensions of wellness with residents and encourage self-evaluations.
• Emphasize the importance of self-care routines in maintaining recovery.

Step 10: Foster Community Support

• Create avenues for residents to build supportive relationships with peers and family members.
• Encourage participation in support groups and external resources when necessary.

Step 11: Address Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

• Discuss barriers to those prescribed MAT and the importance of addressing these challenges.
• Ensure policies are in place to prevent medication diversion and misuse.

Step 12: Manage Relapse Among Residents

• Prepare strategies for addressing situations when one resident relapses, including:
  • Open discussions about the incident.
  • Providing support to both the individual who relapsed and other residents.
• Establish policies for re-engagement after a relapse occurs.

Conclusion

Preventing and addressing relapse is a collaborative effort that requires understanding, communication, and support within a community. By implementing these strategies, recovery homes can create a safe and nurturing environment that empowers residents to maintain their recovery journey. Encourage ongoing learning and adaptation of these approaches to meet the unique needs of your community.