How Can Relapse Prevention Help DUI/DWI Offenders Maintain Sobriety?
Life after being charged with a DUI/DWI tends to change due to various requirements. It can be difficult for one with a DUI/DWI to adjust to their new lifestyle. Certain limitations, unwanted substance exposure, and uncomfortable triggers can increase feelings of distress. Although this can be a common problem, one needs to abstain from harmful substances, especially while driving. Relapse prevention at Restoration Recovery can help one maintain sobriety. It can also aid in staying on track to make safe decisions for their safety as well as others.
What Is a DUI/DWI?
It is not safe for one to drive under the influence (DUI). A DUI can also be referred to as driving while intoxicated (DWI). If one is severely impaired, it puts one and others in serious harm’s way. It is illegal to drive while impaired by marijuana, opioids, alcohol, methamphetamines, or prescription drugs. These substances can either slow one’s judgment, coordination, or ability to react in a timely fashion. Methamphetamines and cocaine can increase irritability, aggression, and reckless driving. Using two or more substances together can further intensify the effects.
Certain restrictions may vary across states. For example, after experiencing a DUI conviction for the first time, a driver may receive a restricted driver’s license. Their car may also be fitted with an ignition interlock for up to one year. A restricted license limits an individual’s driving privileges. They may only be allowed to drive to court, work, medical appointments, or school. However, after so many convictions, an individual may lose their driving privileges for good.
Why Should a Person With a DUI/DWI Maintain Sobriety From Drugs and Alcohol?
It is important for DUI/DWI offenders to maintain sobriety. This may not only promote safety for themselves but for others as well. Maintaining sobriety can prevent trauma, heartbreak, and distress to families. Staying sober can allow one’s mind and body to heal. Once an individual begins to recover and discontinue past addictive habits, they may begin to see everything else in their life begin to fall into place. Maintaining sobriety can work to improve relationships and help one gain a positive reputation within their community.
Tips to Become More Responsible
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 37 individuals in the U.S. die in a drunk-driving accident just about every day. In other words, that is one individual every 39 minutes. Studies have estimated that about 13,524 individuals have died in 2022 due to alcohol-impaired driving. Sadly, each death was preventable. Therefore, it is critical for each citizen to make an effort to become more responsible. Tips to make changes to stay sober include:
- Find new hobbies
- Change certain habits
- Consider seeking additional support
- Set boundaries
- Practice self-care strategies
- Forgive oneself and others
- Avoid certain triggers
- Set continuous goals
Sober Activities to Engage in to Help an Individual Maintain Sobriety
It can be difficult for individuals of all ages to maintain sobriety. Substance exposure is everywhere, including online ads, television commercials, billboards, movies, and more. It may help one to follow sober living skills to stay on track to lasting sobriety. Making major life changes can promote a safe and healthy lifestyle for everyone. Removing relationships with those who still use harmful substances can be helpful. Taking action to build a strong support system is crucial to maintaining sobriety. For example, an individual may enjoy engaging in sober activities with like-minded individuals to refrain from alcohol and drug use. Instead of driving to the bars, clubs, or house parties, an individual may find joy from:
- Hosting a sober barbecue
- Hiking with family
- Exercising or working out at the gym with a buddy
- Taking the kids to an amusement park
- Joining a sports league
- Attending a yoga class
What Is Relapse Prevention?
A relapse does not happen overnight. Relapse is a gradual process that occurs over time. For instance, an individual may experience an emotional relapse early on. They may act in ways that could lead to relapse but not necessarily think about using or drinking just yet. An individual may later experience a mental relapse. This is where one thinks about using or drinking again but does not pick up. If their symptoms are left unmanaged due to a serious lack of support, they may finally endure a physical relapse. This is where one begins to use or drink again.
Continuing care at Restoration Recovery can help one maintain sobriety. Research indicates that relapse prevention may not only work to prevent an unwanted relapse but also help a person come back from a relapse. Relapse prevention is an important part of addiction recovery. A typical relapse prevention session provides therapy, skill development, continuous monitoring, peer support, and sometimes certain medications for further management. Some advantages that can come from moving forward with relapse prevention include:
- Reduced risk of a tragic relapse
- Helps DUI/DWI offenders stay sober
- Saves lives
- Holistic approach to care
- Increased motivation to reach sober living goals
- Improved self-esteem, confidence, and sense of self-worth
Addiction aftercare is a comprehensive and continuous support system designed to provide individuals with the necessary tools, resources, and guidance to maintain their sobriety after completing inpatient rehab near Sacramento. Addiction aftercare programs are tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual, taking into account factors such as the severity of the addiction, the presence of dual diagnosis disorders, and personal circumstances. Aftercare programs such as relapse prevention help individuals develop effective coping strategies and identify potential triggers, reducing the risk of relapse. Our hope is that we help restore meaning, purpose, and self-esteem for DUI/DWI offenders, providing them with the tools for a successful future. Call Restoration Recovery at (888) 290-0925 for support.
