Preventing relapse and maintaining change in addictive behaviors

While a variety of cognitive-behavioral interventions are efficacious in reducing substance abuse, posttreatment relapse rater remain considerably high, contributing to a belief that substance use disorders are chronic and episodic conditions. For over two decades, cognitive-behavioral relapse prevention has become incorporated into substance abuse treatment by offering a specific perspective on relapse and a set of strategies aimed at maintaining behavioral change over the long haul and to reduce the impact of the fall should a slip occur. We first review Marlatt's original relapse prevention model, followed by an overview of substance abuse relapse prevention treatment outcome literature and review of studies testing components of the original model. We conclude with a discussion of recommendations for future directions.