Long-Term Maintenance

The real work begins after the initial motivation fades. This module prepares you for sustainable, lifelong change.

What You'll Learn

Managing high-risk situations long-term
The difference between a slip and a relapse
Building a support system
Continuing growth beyond recovery

The Maintenance Mindset

Recovery isn't a destination—it's a practice. Even after years of success, the neural pathways that drove addictive behavior still exist. They weaken with disuse but can be reactivated by the right combination of stress, triggers, and opportunity.

Long-term success requires:

Continued vigilance without paranoia
Regular practice of skills learned
Ongoing growth in life satisfaction
Community connection for support and accountability

Handling Setbacks

A slip isn't a failure—it's data. The key is how you respond:

Unhelpful Response: Slip → Shame → "I've ruined everything" → Give up → Full relapse

Skillful Response: Slip → Curiosity → "What can I learn?" → Adjust strategy → Continue progress

High-Risk Situations

Certain situations increase vulnerability:

HALT: Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired
Major life transitions
Celebrations and holidays
Relationship stress
Professional setbacks

Planning for these situations in advance is essential.

The Ongoing Journey

Recovery opens the door to deeper questions:

What do I really want from life?
Who do I want to become?
How do I want to show up in relationships?
What legacy do I want to leave?

Mind Sentry is a tool for the first phase of this journey. The work that follows is the most important part.