How To Avoid “Revolving Door Syndrome”

The cycle of repeated treatment and relapse is often called "Revolving Door Syndrome". Being able to identify triggers for relapse combined with proper aftercare can help end this cycle.

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The term “Revolving Door Syndrome” is often used in the context of addiction treatment to describe a pattern where a person repeatedly cycles in and out of treatment programs.

This phenomenon reflects the challenges that some people face in maintaining long-term recovery from addiction.

Defining “Revolving Door Syndrome” In Addiction Recovery

“Revolving Door Syndrome” in addiction recovery refers to the recurring pattern where individuals cycle in and out of addiction treatment after periods of sobriety.

Despite initial efforts to address their substance use disorder through treatment programs or periods of sobriety, people may encounter triggers, stressors, or unresolved issues related to substance use.

These challenges can eventually lead to relapse and a return to addictive behaviors.

Revolving Door Syndrome underscores the importance of comprehensive, ongoing support to break the cycle of addiction and promote sustained recovery.

What Factors Contribute To Revolving Door Syndrome?

There are several main factors that can contribute to Revolving Door Syndrome.

Psychological Factors

Many individuals with addiction have underlying psychological issues such as trauma, depression, or other mental health disorders.

These issues can contribute to substance abuse as individuals may use drugs or alcohol as a means of self-medication to cope with emotional pain or distress.

If these underlying psychological issues go unaddressed, they can contribute to Revolving Door Syndrome.

Social Influences

Social factors, including relationships with friends, family members, and social networks, can impact an individual’s recovery journey.

Negative influences, such as peers who engage in substance use or environments where drug or alcohol use is normalized, can undermine recovery efforts and contribute to Revolving Door Syndrome.

Co-occurring Disorders

Substance use disorders often co-occur with other mental health disorders, a phenomenon known as dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorders.

Individuals with co-occurring disorders may face additional challenges in recovery as both the addiction and the mental health disorder need to be addressed simultaneously.

Without proper treatment for both conditions, individuals may be at increased risk of relapse and Revolving Door Syndrome.

Lack Of Coping Skills

Many individuals with addiction may lack healthy coping skills to deal with stress, cravings, and emotional distress.

Without effective coping mechanisms, people are more likely to resort to substance use as a way of managing negative emotions or coping with challenging situations.

Learning coping skills, stress management techniques, and relapse prevention strategies are essential for breaking the cycle of Revolving Door Syndrome.

The Level Of Care And Type Of Treatment Received

Gaps or inadequacies in addiction treatment can significantly contribute to the Revolving Door phenomenon, perpetuating the cycle of addiction.

Limited access to evidence-based treatment programs can prevent people from receiving the care they need.

Furthermore, a lack of individualized care tailored to each person’s unique needs and circumstances may result in treatment plans that do not adequately address underlying issues.

People who do not receive adequate, evidence-based care have an increased likelihood of experiencing Revolving Door Syndrome.

Relapse Prevention Methods At Bedrock Recovery Center

At Bedrock Recovery Center, we offer relapse prevention methods for individuals experiencing Revolving Door Syndrome.

By implementing these tactics, we help our clients break the cycle of addiction and achieve lasting recovery.

Individualized Care

At Bedrock Recovery Center, individualized care is at the center of everything we do.

We work with our clients to create a personalized relapse prevention plan that outlines specific strategies, coping mechanisms, and support networks to use when faced with cravings.

Identify Triggers

During treatment, our qualified specialists begin by helping clients identify triggers or high-risk situations that increase their risk of relapse such as stress, negative emotions, or social pressures.

By recognizing these triggers, we empower our clients to recognize these triggers, arming them with the tools needed to navigate challenging situations.

Develop Coping Skills

During treatment, we teach our clients healthy coping skills and stress management techniques to deal with triggers and cravings without resorting to substance use.

This may include mindfulness meditation, assertiveness training, or problem-solving skills.

Co-Occurring Disorder Treatment

Untreated co-occurring disorders are one of the main drivers of relapse during recovery.

During treatment, we address underlying mental health issues that contribute to addiction and increase the risk of relapse.

This may involve addressing co-occurring mental health disorders, trauma, or relationship problems that impact recovery.

Psychiatry And Mental Health Services

At Bedrock Recovery Center, we recognize the integral role that psychiatry and mental health services play in each person’s addiction recovery journey.

Our team of experienced mental health professionals is dedicated to providing personalized assessment and treatment of co-occurring mental health disorders.

Address Relapse Quickly

If a relapse occurs, we respond promptly and compassionately by helping our clients recognize the relapse, assess the factors contributing to it, and develop a plan to recommit to sobriety.

Aftercare And Alumni Programs

Our aftercare and alumni programs play a crucial role in preventing relapse and supporting individuals in maintaining long-term sobriety after completing addiction treatment.

Our aftercare programs typically include a range of services such as counseling, support groups, and access to community resources.

Similarly, our alumni programs offer opportunities for former clients to stay connected with peers who have shared experiences in recovery.

By participating in Bedrock’s aftercare and alumni programs, our clients receive continued support, reducing the instances of Revolving Door Syndrome.

Learn More About Evidence-Based Addiction Treatment At Bedrock

If you or a loved one is experiencing revolving door syndrome, evidence-based addiction treatment can help. Contact Bedrock Recovery Center to learn more.

  1. National Library of Medicine: Bookshelf https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551500/
  2. National Library of Medicine: PubMed https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9463080/
  3. National Library of Medicine: PubMed https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5688890/
  4. National Library of Medicine: PubMed https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5844157/

Written by Bedrock Recovery Center Editorial Team

Published on: February 14, 2024

© 2024 Bedrock Recovery Center | All Rights Reserved

* This page does not provide medical advice.

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