Lesson 11: Preventing Relapse

🎯 Lesson Objectives

By the end of this lesson, participants will be able to:

• Understand that relapse is a process, not just a moment.
• Identify early warning signs of vulnerability.
• Build a personalized Relapse Prevention Plan (RPP).
• Strengthen long-term commitment through systems, not just willpower.

🧠 Quote

“You don’t have to start over if you never stop starting again.”

📖 Scripture

“Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently… Carry each other’s burdens…”
— Galatians 6:1–2 (NIV)

🎬 It Didn’t “Just Happen”

Tony hadn’t gambled in 4 months. Then one weekend, he relapsed. At first, he said, “I don’t know what happened.” But when he looked back, he saw it clearly: he stopped journaling, missed group meetings, got overwhelmed with work, isolated himself—and ignored the warning signs. The relapse didn’t happen suddenly. It built silently. Now, he has a plan—not just to recover, but to prevent it.

🧠 The 3 Stages of Relapse

1. Emotional Relapse – You’re not thinking about gambling, but your emotions (stress, isolation, poor self-care) set the stage.
2. Mental Relapse – The internal battle begins. You fantasize, rationalize, or bargain (“Just once…”).
3. Physical Relapse – You act on it and gamble again.

🔍 Catch the spiral early. It’s easier to prevent than to undo.

🛠 Recovery Tool: Relapse Prevention Plan (RPP)

🔹 Step 1: Know Your Triggers

• Situations: ____________
• Emotions: ____________
• People/places: ____________

🔹 Step 2: Watch for Warning Signs

• Skipping routines or therapy
• Withdrawing from support
• Sleeping/eating irregularly
• Minimizing stress
• Romanticizing past gambling wins

🔹 Step 3: Action Steps

• When I feel triggered, I will: ______________
• My daily recovery anchors are: ______________
• If I slip, I will contact: ______________

🔹 Step 4: Make a “Relapse Emergency Kit”

Prepare a written or digital kit that includes:

• Your WHY
• Scripture or affirmations
• Emergency contacts
• Distraction activities
• Previous journal reflections
• A reminder that you’re not starting over—you’re continuing the work

✍️ Journaling Prompts

• What patterns or emotions usually come before I feel tempted?
• What helps me stay grounded in my recovery?
• What’s my plan if I slip—not to hide, but to heal?

🙏 Prayer for Strength and Stability

“God, I know the path to freedom isn’t always straight. I might feel weak or tempted—but You are faithful. Help me recognize the warning signs. Teach me to act before I spiral. And if I ever fall, help me rise quickly—without shame, without delay, and without giving up. I trust that You walk with me daily, not just when I’m strong. Amen.”

✅ Recovery Challenge: Commit & Share

Create your Relapse Prevention Plan in writing. Then, share it with someone you trust—a sponsor, spouse, accountability partner, or therapist.

Recovery is strongest when it’s shared.