Create a Relapse Prevention Plan

Having a personalized relapse prevention plan can help even the most chronic relapser find strength to keep their recovery going. But what does that entail? What should be included in one? How do they help? Understanding what relapse is and what you can do to prevent it can help your recovery process immensely in the long run. Recovery is possible, and part of that is having a plan in place for if you feel the desire to use again.

What is a Relapse and Why is it Dangerous?

12>Drug addiction and 12>alcohol addiction are diseases that can only be managed, never cured. However, with proper treatment and understanding, this disease can be managed. It can go into a remission state where it is not active, but can reoccur at any time. When this happens, that is what is considered a relapse. After any length of abstinence from drugs and alcohol, when the substances are resumed, it is called a relapse. Now how can this be dangerous? Oftentimes people who stop using drugs and alcohol feel like they can control their drinking or drug use. Then, when they take that first sip or “hit,” the beast is released all over again. This can lead to serious consequences, up to and including death. More often than not the assistance of medical professionals is needed to begin the journey to recovery again. As with any disease or illness, treatment is key to reaching a state of remission. To maintain that state of remission, an effective relapse prevention program is vital.

What is a Relapse Prevention Plan?

In simple terms, a relapse prevention plan is just that, a plan put in place to help someone stay clean and sober, even on the bad days when drugs and alcohol could seemingly take away all of their problems. Relapse is a gradual process that tends to begin before you ever pick up the drink or the drug. Being able to identify the things that could trigger or cause a relapse, and counteracting them by implementing healthy alternatives into your life is essentially what a relapse prevention plan is. A written and documented plan put together with the help of a professional or someone who has long term recovery and experience with the subject that can help you to make a better choice when it comes to fighting off the desire to use again.

What Should be Included in a Relapse Prevention Plan?

Relapse prevention plans should be individualized from person to person. Recovery is not linear and not everyone has the same process. However, the following are some general components that could help those seeking recovery to have an outline for a successful plan.

Triggers

For a relapse prevention plan to be successful, the need to be completely honest and open about things that can trigger a relapse is crucial. Pointing these things out to yourself as well as another person can help to hold you accountable in order to stay away from triggering situations. Simply, anything that could potentially put your recovery at risk, and lead you back to drugs and alcohol, should be considered a trigger.

Managing Cravings

Cravings are the feelings of the desire to use. So when you pass a bar and want to go in for a drink, or are having a bad day and think that using drugs or alcohol would make it better, these are cravings. Sometimes they are more severe than other times. Managing them is key to making it through them.

Support Groups and 12-Step Programs

Having the support of professionals as in individual therapy, as well as the support of others in recovery, is highly recommended. Access to support groups like those of a 12-Step program help provide accountability to and from people who understand the recovery process.

Lifestyle Changes

This is one of the most important parts of having a successful relapse prevention program. Changing the people, places, and things of the past will help you on the road to a better life. Stay away from using and drinking buddies, places where drugs and alcohol are rampant, and the things that led to your drinking and drugging, remove them from your life.

Set Goals

Having small attainable goals in the beginning can help to build confidence. Once the smaller goals are achieved, set bigger ones. Not only does it give you something to work toward, but when you reach your goal, it feels good.

Create a Plan for if Relapse Occurs

Have a person you can turn to if you do use again. Tell them that you relapsed, and that you need to put the plan into action.

Getting Help for Drug and Alcohol Abuse in Louisville, KY

Relapse is not a requirement for recovery, but it does happen. If you or a loved one have experienced a relapse and need help getting back on track, there is help out there. At Louisville Addiction Center, we strive to provide a safe and healing environment for those in our care. 12>Contact us today to begin the next chapter in your life.

Educational & Informational Use

The content published on Louisville Addiction Center blog pages is intended for general educational and informational purposes related to addiction, substance use disorders, detoxification, rehabilitation, mental health, and recovery support. Blog articles are designed to help readers better understand addiction-related topics and explore treatment concepts, but they are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or individualized treatment planning.

Addiction and co-occurring mental health conditions are complex medical issues that affect individuals differently based on many factors, including substance type, length of use, physical health, mental health history, medications, age, and social environment. Because of this variability, information discussed in blog articles—such as withdrawal symptoms, detox timelines, treatment approaches, medications, relapse risks, or recovery strategies—may not apply to every individual. Reading blog content should not replace consultation with licensed medical or behavioral health professionals.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a medical or mental health emergency, call 911 immediately or go to the nearest emergency room. Emergencies may include suspected overdose, seizures, difficulty breathing, chest pain, severe confusion, hallucinations with unsafe behavior, loss of consciousness, suicidal thoughts, or threats of harm to oneself or others. Louisville Addiction Center blog content is not intended for crisis intervention and should never be used in place of emergency care.

Detoxification from drugs or alcohol can involve serious medical risks, particularly with substances such as alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids, and certain prescription medications. Withdrawal symptoms can escalate quickly and may become life-threatening without proper medical supervision. Any blog content describing detox, withdrawal, or substance cessation is provided to raise awareness and encourage safer decision-making—not to instruct readers to detox on their own. Attempting self-detox without medical oversight can be dangerous and is strongly discouraged.

Blog articles may discuss various addiction treatment options, including medical detox, residential or inpatient rehab, outpatient programs, therapy modalities, medication-assisted treatment, aftercare planning, and recovery support services. These discussions reflect commonly used, evidence-informed approaches but do not represent guarantees of effectiveness or suitability for every person. Treatment recommendations should always be based on a comprehensive assessment conducted by licensed professionals.

Information related to insurance coverage, treatment costs, or payment options that appears within blog content is provided for general informational purposes only. Insurance benefits vary widely depending on the individual’s plan, carrier, state regulations, and medical necessity criteria. Coverage details may change without notice, and no insurance-related statements on blog pages should be interpreted as a promise of coverage or payment. Louisville Addiction Center encourages readers to contact our admissions team directly to verify insurance benefits and eligibility before making treatment decisions.

Some blog posts may reference third-party studies, external organizations, medications, community resources, or harm-reduction concepts. These references are provided for educational context only and do not constitute endorsements. Louisville Addiction Center does not control third-party content and is not responsible for the accuracy, availability, or practices of external websites or organizations.

Use of Louisville Addiction Center blog pages does not establish a provider–patient relationship. Submitting comments, contacting the center through a blog page, or reading articles does not guarantee admission to treatment or access to services. Recovery outcomes vary, and no specific results are promised or implied.

If you are struggling with substance use, withdrawal symptoms, or questions about treatment, we encourage you to seek guidance from licensed healthcare providers. For personalized information about treatment options or insurance verification, you may contact Louisville Addiction Center directly. For emergencies, call 911 immediately.

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→ Sources

Alcohol Rehab Help. (2022). Alcohol statistics in Kentucky. Alcohol Rehab Help. https://alcoholrehabhelp.org/kentucky/alcohol-statistics/
Healthy KY. (n.d.). Drug and alcohol statistics in Kentucky. Healthy Kentucky. https://www.healthyky.org/drug-and-alcohol-statistics-in-kentucky.html
Kentucky Office of Drug Control Policy. (n.d.). An assessment of Kentucky’s substance use disorder crisis. Commonwealth of Kentucky. https://odcp.ky.gov/
Kong, J. (2022). An assessment of alcohol use disorder and treatment [Research brief]. University of Louisville. https://louisville.edu/sphis/departments/cik/docs-and-pdfs-1/Kong_AUD_ResearchBrief_FINALADA.pdf
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2019). State profile: Kentucky—N-SSATS report. SAMHSA. https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/quick_statistics/state_profiles/NSSATS-KY19.pdf
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2024). Underage drinking prevention programs in Kentucky. SAMHSA. https://library.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/kentucky-iccpud-state-report-2024.pdf
Wikipedia. (2025). Casey’s Law (Matthew Casey Wethington Act). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Casey%27s_Law

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Medically Reviewed By

Dr. Vahid Osman, M.D.

Board-Certified Psychiatrist & Addictionologist

Dr. Vahid Osman is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist and Addictionologist with extensive experience treating mental illness, chemical dependency, and developmental disorders. Dr. Osman trained in Psychiatry in France and in Austin, Texas. Read more.

Clinically Reviewed By

Josh Sprung, L.C.S.W.

Board-Certified Clinical Social Worker

Joshua Sprung serves as a Clinical Reviewer at Louisville Addiction Center, bringing a wealth of expertise to ensure exceptional patient care. Read more.

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Phillip S.

1 month ago

For anyone who is serious about Recovery from Substance Use Disorder, there is an answer here. This place has a licensed therapist, and plenty of support staff to help me on my journey. They have provided resources. And the supportive housing is first rate.

Tanya

4 months ago

I would recommend this place for sure especially their PHP program, it was my very first time coming here and to be honest i was very nervous and scared but it was actually a lot more welcoming than i thought and i think theres alot of good people here, and alot of people that help, especially the therapists, ive done 3 full months as a teen and i would say it was definitely a life changing experience and i made so many connections and friends, and i just took so much from this place, and i learned so much about myself as well, 100% recommend PHP and their IOP program.

Jesse B.

11 months ago

I enjoyed the virtual IOP treatment more than I thought I would. It worked well with my work schedule and I got to be comfortable at home as well as being comfortable in the group. I was able to connect and exchange information with my peers and expand my recover/Sobriety network!

Damon E.

11 months ago

Very amazing place these people Care a lot when it comes to recovery.... the staff is absolutely the best....

Austin B.

1 year ago

LAC was great. I participated in the evening groups through zoom, which I originally had reservations about. Even though the meetings were online, they were still very engaging, informative, and personal. The therapist and case manager were incredible. They were both very authentic and supportive, and they were easily available when we needed them. I am very appreciative and grateful for this program.

Coley W.

1 year ago

I’ve had great success with the individuals i’ve sent to LAC. I’ve been impressed with the smooth Admissions process in the stressful situations. The compassion they receive after arriving and the level of care is as good as anywhere out there. Most definitely will continue to use LAC

Kyle T.

2 years ago

I have nothing but positive things to say about LAC. I went there not expecting too much and I left there with what feels like a family. Everyone is so nice and extremely down to earth. You will be in good hands at LAC

William S.

2 years ago

This is 5 star facility. The staff is one of a kind, the program is exactly what you are looking for. Call these people today if you or someone you know is struggling!

Aaron A.

2 years ago

Great place with great staff that care!

Jacob W.

2 years ago

Would highly recommend LAC to anyone struggling with addiction. They offer a supportive environment that allows you to focus on your recovery and becoming a productive member of society.

Brad F.

3 years ago

LAC is an amazing treatment facility. Truly a 5 * place for treatment. From ownership, leadership to general staff this place is incredible. The therapist, Techs and speakers are all first class. The housing, if doing PHP like I participated in was also perfect. I met so many incredible people. It’s unreal to be honest. I today this day still stay in contact with most residents who I attended with. Thank you LAC for not only all of your help but also continued support!!!
Brad Franzman

Matt H.

3 years ago

Louisville addiction center is a wonderful facility for anyone struggling with substance use disorders. The staff is wonderful and client care is most important. If you or a loved one are struggling I would highly recommend this place.

Kathryn T.

3 years ago

This is an awesome place for anyone struggling with a substance use disorder. It is a beautiful facility, conveniently located to all Louisville has to offer. The staff members are kind and helpful, it is easy to tell they truly want to help you recover. 10/10 recommend this programming if you are ready to make a change.

Zack B.

3 years ago

Beautiful facility that is run by a staff that truly cares. If you or a loved one is struggling with SUD and are close the the greater Louisville area, LAC will without a doubt provide you will the tools needed to have a sober, successful life.

David W.

3 years ago

I had the opportunity to tour and attend the open house for Louisville Addiction Center on 2/22/23. As and individual in recovery and also working for SUD, I couldn’t be more impressed with the facility and approach that LAC is taking and offering those affected by substance abuse. If you or a loved one is struggling, this facility would provide the treatment, love and comfort your family member deserves.