So, take a few minutes to think about what your potential signs of relapse might be, as well as things that you could do in the event that you notice them occurring. It’s definitely better to have a plan in place and not need to use it, than to be without a plan if you do need one.
Here are a few suggestions that might help prevent the development of any signs or symptoms of depression or anxiety from getting worse:
- Tune into what you’re thinking and/or feeling. Are you falling into any cognitive traps? Apply some of the strategies you’ve learned to counter those.
- Talk to someone about what you’re experiencing. This might include a family member, friend, or your family physician.
- Do something fun or that you may not have done in a while.
- Start exercising regularly – research shows that regular exercise (even low-intensity exercise like walking) helps to reduce stress and can be as effective for treating mild to moderate depression and anxiety as medications. If you are already taking medications for these conditions, exercise can help to enhance their beneficial effects. It can also help to prevent relapse.
Sample
My Relapse Prevention Form |
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| What I would do if I noticed any of my warning signs: | |||||
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