Which practice is key to preventing relapse in clients with substance use disorders?

Developing healthy coping strategies is essential for preventing relapse in clients with substance use disorders. Coping strategies equip clients with the tools they need to manage stress, triggers, and cravings that may lead them back to substance use. When clients develop these skills, they become more resilient in facing the challenges of sobriety.

Healthy coping mechanisms can include problem-solving skills, mindfulness techniques, exercise, and engaging in hobbies or activities that provide joy and distraction. By fostering a robust set of coping strategies, clients can effectively navigate difficult emotions and situations without resorting to substance use, thereby reducing the risk of relapse.

Other options, while important in their own right, do not address the fundamental need for individuals to have personal strategies for managing their thoughts and behaviors during challenging times. For instance, strictly adhering to a medication plan may support recovery but will not offer clients the necessary skills to handle stressors or life changes independently. Minimizing contact with old friends might help in the short term, but it does not teach clients how to cope with social pressures or tough situations effectively. Similarly, consistently attending group therapy is beneficial, but it is only one aspect of a broader strategy for recovery that must include personal development and coping abilities.