Is a Relapse Prevention Group Exclusively Made Up of People in Recovery?

A relapse prevention group is a broad umbrella term that defines various types of supportive peer groups that meet regularly. This can be a 12-step group, or group with more of a psychological stance, but it does typically limit membership to people in addiction recovery. The primary reason for this is that recovering addicts need to feel free to express themselves openly. Inviting outsiders, such as family members of other recovering addicts, may inhibit one’s ability to speak freely.

Attending a relapse prevention group is essential to the sustained recovery of each addict, because it keeps them focused on their sobriety. While in rehab, addicts learn coping mechanisms that help them avoid relapses, but, once they leave treatment, it becomes easy to believe they don’t need the strategies they learned in rehab. Without continued reinforcement of recovery philosophies and therapies, addicts increase the likelihood that they will relapse.

What Do They Do in a Relapse Prevention Group Meeting?

Each group is different, but there are some common activities that most relapse prevention groups do use. For instance, functional analysis is common to most groups, because it helps recovering addicts identify the emotions and thoughts that often precede a craving. By recognizing how an oncoming craving makes them feel, recovering addicts can be better able to defend against a relapse. This can lead to another exercise called warning sign management. This involves recognizing the warning signs of a possible relapse and learning techniques for resisting the urge to use again. Relapse prevention groups may also take time for centering, which is essentially a deep breathing exercise.

t involves relaxing, often by sitting on the floor with the legs straight, while focusing on each deep breath. As the participants engage in this exercise, they release any thoughts that may be troubling them. This process helps clear negative thoughts about the past as well as getting rid of worries about the future. After completing the exercise, participants often feel relaxed and refreshed. For recovering addicts, this is an effective way of coping with the stress that may lead to a relapse.

To learn more about addiction treatment and group therapy, call one of our counselors at 833-846-5669. Discussing your concerns and learning about our treatment options can help you make the decision to get clean. Our counselors are available 24 hours a day to answer your questions. By seeking help for your addiction, you can begin living a healthier lifestyle.