The association between Healthy Lifestyle Behaviors and relapse rates in a homeless veteran population

This study evaluates the association between Healthy Lifestyle Behaviors (HLBs) and relapse rates in a homeless residential rehabilitation program. Ninety-seven homeless veterans with Substance Dependence in Early Remission were evaluated. Veterans recorded recreational, social, coping/spiritual, and substance recovery activities. Those who relapsed during residential treatment were compared to those who did not. Higher numbers of HLBs were associated with lower relapse rates during treatment. No differences were found between the two groups in the number of recovery activities performed. HLBs proved better predictors of success than recovery behaviors. Implications and limitations are discussed.