Any addict in recovery will tell you that avoiding high-risk situations is crucial for staying sober.

But what exactly counts as a high-risk situation?

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Here are 9 of the most common high-risk situations for recovering addicts. Plus, we also include tips on how to avoid being in situations that may deter your progress.

1. Being Around Other People Who Use Drugs or Alcohol

Being around other people using drugs or drinking alcohol makes it challenging to recover. If you can, avoid social situations where there will be drugs or alcohol present. If you can’t avoid them altogether, bring along a friend or recovery buddy. Having a supportive friend can help you stay away from temptation.

2. Going to Places Where You Used to Use Drugs or Drink Alcohol

For many people in recovery, going back to where they used to get drugs or alcohol can be a trigger. If you can, avoid these places entirely. If you can’t, ask someone who understands your goal to stay sober to come with you. They can help you from falling back into old patterns.

3. Being Around People Who Don’t Support Your Recovery

It’s essential to surround yourself with people who support your recovery. You shouldn’t spend time around people who undermine it because it can set you back on your progress.

Unfortunately, you may have family or friends who tempt you to relapse. Or they may make negative comments about your sobriety. If there are people like this in your life, it’s best to distance yourself from them for now.

4. Feeling Stressed Out or Anxious

Stress and anxiety can be significant triggers for people in recovery. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, try to take some time for yourself to relax and de-stress. There are many ways to destress and make time for yourself.

For example, you can take a yoga class. Another idea is to go for a walk in nature. Spending some time reading and listening to music are other ways to unwind.

5. Feeling Bored or Restless

Boredom and restlessness are other common triggers for relapse. If you have too much free time, try to fill it with positive activities. The activities you select should make you feel happy. So, volunteer, take up a new hobby or connect with other people in recovery. You’ll be more likely to make good decisions that result in you feeling fulfilled in life.

6. Feeling Lonely or Isolated

Loneliness and isolation are often described as recovery’s “silent killers.” The reason why they’re detrimental to recovery is that they can be such strong triggers for relapse.

If you’re feeling lonely, reach out to your support system. You can also connect with other people in recovery. You might also want to consider getting a pet that can provide companionship and love.

7. Experiencing Significant Life Changes

Any major life change, whether it’s positive or negative, can be a trigger for relapse. If you go through something challenging, like a divorce or the death of a loved one, lean on your support system. You must take care of yourself emotionally and mentally.

If you’re experiencing a positive life change, like getting a new job or having a baby, focus on the good things. Enjoy each moment as they come, and you’ll be encouraged to stay the course.

8. Encountering Financial Problems

Money troubles are a major stressor for many people. Struggling with finances may trigger a relapse. If you’re experiencing financial difficulties, try to stay calm. It’s helpful to think logically about the situation.

If you have a sponsor, reach out to them. Or a therapist can offer much-needed financial advice.

9. Having Easy Access to Drugs or Alcohol

You may have drugs and alcohol easily accessible. If that’s the case, it’s much more likely you’ll get tempted to use them.

For example, you may live with someone who uses drugs or drinks alcohol. If that’s the case, try to keep them out of reach and sight. It would be best to move out or get a new roommate to eliminate any temptations.

If you work in a job where there are drugs or alcohol present, talk to your supervisor. You must change roles or responsibilities to avoid a relapse.

Recovery Is a Lifelong Journey

If you find it difficult to overcome addiction, consider getting help from professionals. For example, counselors can provide the right resources so you can get back on track.

The right professional may also have suggestions on a recovery center you can go to in your area. For example, in California, there are excellent recovery centers like Hollywood Hills Recovery.

Overcoming addiction is a lifelong journey, and it’s not always easy. But by being aware of the situations that might trigger a relapse, you can be better prepared to face them. If you do find yourself in a high-risk situation, remember that you have the power to choose recovery.