Come 4th of July, recovering individuals have a better reason to stay sober. Celebrating our country’s freedom and, with it, celebrating freedom from addiction. Yet, it is vital to realize that holidays and celebrations are common triggers for relapse.

Experts suggest getting your plan together now for a “sober fun 4th of July”. Make sure you will be safe by not being in an environment that provides opportunities to use. If you have attended our addiction treatment program you have been well versed in understanding your triggers and have learned how to avoid and handle those situations. Spend some time revisiting these coping skills that are your first line of defense when it comes to resisting urges and cravings for drug and alcohol use.

What to Do If You Relapse

Unfortunately, relapse can happen, but the good news is that many people who do relapse go back to living healthy, sober lives again. If you are committed to your recovery and/or you have surrounded yourself with a good support system you can reclaim your sober state. Getting back on track may be helped by attending outpatient treatment or joining a support group, but some circumstances might warrant additional comprehensive inpatient recovery treatment. A new assessment by an addiction treatment specialist may help identify what type of treatment, if any, may be needed.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse writes that “for the addicted individual, lapses to drug abuse do not indicate failure—rather, they signify that treatment needs to be reinstated or adjusted, or that alternate treatment is needed.”

We at Florida Center for Recovery wish all recovering individuals a happy and safe 4th of July.

MAKE YOUR OWN HISTORY by staying true to your commitment to sobriety while celebrating the day with your family and friends who support your recovery.