Relapse Prevention for Mood and Addictive Disorders | Essential Webinar for Counselors
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Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes' webinar series delves into the multifaceted nature of relapse prevention, addressing the physical, interpersonal, emotional, cognitive, environmental, and spiritual dimensions of relapse in mental health and addiction. Relapse is defined as a return to previous detrimental behaviors or symptoms, with early warning signs often preceding the actual relapse. Vulnerabilities such as sleep deficiency, nutritional deficits, and stress can increase the likelihood of relapse by leading to irritability and a heightened stress response. The series emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and self-awareness in recognizing these signs and maintaining recovery. It also highlights the role of stress in exacerbating conditions like mood disorders and addictions, suggesting individualized strategies to reduce stress and enhance problem-solving skills. Interpersonal relationships are a focal point, with the series discussing how negative interactions can trigger relapse and the importance of maintaining supportive connections. Emotional intelligence and distress tolerance skills are recommended to manage intense emotions and prevent a 'backwards cascade' of stress responses. The series also explores cognitive aspects of relapse, encouraging individuals to differentiate between feelings and facts and to address underlying fears that trigger negative emotions. Environmental factors are considered, advising against reintroducing triggers into one's life and engaging in negative activities. The importance of evaluating changes in various life aspects before a relapse occurs is underscored, with mindfulness practices and daily positive experiences being key to mitigating vulnerabilities. The series concludes with a reminder of the role of basic needs like hydration in mental health, highlighting the impact of dehydration on neurotransmitter communication. Overall, the webinar series provides comprehensive strategies for recognizing and managing the complex interplay of factors that contribute to relapse, advocating for proactive management and self-compassion in the journey towards sustained recovery.
Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes' webinar series delves into the multifaceted nature of relapse prevention, add