If you've been battling addiction, it's important to remember that you're not alone. Millions of Australians will go through the same issues as you in any given year and if you have sought help for your troubles, you have taken the first, but significant step forward. However, don't underestimate the challenge that you may face when you go back out "into the real world." You will have to come up with a plan and stick to it as robustly as possible, if you are to avoid any issues in the future. How should you try to create this plan for best effect?

Beware of Bad Habits

The typical human being will always try to set up habits to get through each day. This process of repetition can be advantageous as it helps to conserve energy and be more productive. However, it can also be negative if some of these habits have led to dependence on drugs or alcohol in the past. It can often be difficult to "shake" these habits and certain activities or situations can trigger a relapse.

Formulate a Plan

You will need to ingrain new habits going forward and while this may appear to be quite difficult when you start out, it will become easier with time. Fundamentally, you will need to avoid any trigger situations, and this is where your new plan comes in.

Practice Avoidance

Whatever you do, avoid going to places where drugs or alcohol are likely to be evident. You will be putting yourself under too much pressure if it is readily available. Furthermore, you must avoid spending time with individuals who are still engaged in those activities, as peer pressure could take over and force a relapse.

Escape

If you do find yourself, inadvertently, with some of these people or in "problem" locations, you must have an escape plan, so you can immediately remove yourself. Be especially careful, as this situation may itself create high levels of stress and drugs or alcohol can seem to be the best way out at that moment.

Deal with Emotions

Learn how to deal with negative emotions as they manifest themselves. Don't let them linger and compound the danger. If you need to, confide in someone who you can trust and who will help you get through the immediate risk period. This may be all you need as you take each individual threat, one at a time.

Be Active

Try to take up new habits that involve outdoor activities and exercise. Make sure that you eat properly and keep active. If you need to, volunteer to help a charity or worthy cause, so that you are always being productive. The more you tire yourself out, the less you will be tempted to seek out those forbidden pleasures.

Whenever you feel that you are particularly at risk, visit a drug counseling center. They can help you apply these and other tactics to beat addiction — one step at a time.