Alcohol and other drug use are only one aspect of a young person’s life. Recovery occurs in a broad and changing context for young people. There are many aspects of their life that will help or hinder their recovery and practitioners can be instrumental in assisting the young person maintain their goals outside of their alcohol or other drug use. Considering other needs such as: biological needs (eg physical health and fitness), psychological needs ( eg emotional health and sense of purpose) and social needs (housing and support people) are all integral aspects of maintaining recovery.
An imbalanced lifestyle can lead to stress which can be a trigger for relapse. A critical part of relapse prevention involves supporting the young person to create the life they want to lead, not just a life without drugs. Taking away or reducing the drug or alcohol use can leave big gaps in a young person’s life. When these gaps are filled with meaningful activities or new skills, this allows for greater success in maintaining change.
D2. ‘Functional analysis’ of alternative behaviours
G5iii. Reducing physical vulnerability to overwhelming emotions
