Detoxification is difficult, if not done correctly, relapse becomes all too common. It’s especially hard with opioid addiction. Did you know that three out of four people relapse within a month after detoxing? Now keep in mind that many of these people were flying solo with a home detox plan. Some were working with an outpatient program. Relapses rarely occurred after finishing treatment at a medically monitored rehabilitation center using a personalized plan tailored to your situation and lifestyle. So the stats aren’t all that surprising (quote below).

Let’s face it, rewiring the brain and body is hard enough, but that’s not all there is to it. It will require a complete lifestyle change, maybe a new group of friends as well. You will need a comprehensive strategy and plan to avoid temptation. Consider if you want the stresses in your life that could trigger the urge to take opioids. Well, if you work on yourself, you’ll find things a lot easier.

Take a look at your new life without opioids. Think of all the positives and all the things you can do now and do well. Then consider the things in your life that cause you anguish, pain, stress, or depression. Work to limit those situations and find time to do the things that will help you move forward. Let’s talk about this for a moment.

Implementation of an exercise strategy to prevent opioid relapse

By exercising, your brain will release endorphins and put you in a good mood. You will recover your physical and mental health. You will feel happier, healthier and more satisfied. When you exercise, you will begin to eat better and your diet will improve as well. Prevention of depression and stress are two very common outcomes known to those who exercise regularly. This is exactly what you need to keep your mind focused on your new life, instead of regressing into a relapse.

If you’re looking for the easiest and most helpful thing you can do to prevent a relapse, exercising regularly (3 or more times a week) is the smartest thing to do. You will be a happy version of yourself, you will notice the results and you will feel great. After all, this is the goal. No, it’s not going to be easy, nothing in life is, but if you want to have a long life without cutting it short due to addiction, then you should think here.

Reference:

1. “Alternative to the ‘Revolving Door’ of Opioid Detoxification and Relapse.” Boston University School of Medicine. daily science. ScienceDaily, August 20, 2019. Available free from Google Scholar