If you're in college, you know that spring break is right around the corner. If you're recovering from a drug or alcohol addiction, you know that spring break can be a real struggle. If your friends are planning a trip for spring break, your addictions don't necessarily mean that you need to sit it out. However, they do mean that you need to take some precautionary steps before you take off for a fun week with your friends. With careful planning, you can have fun during spring break, and avoid a relapse, at the same time. Here are four steps you'll need to take to ensure a clean and sober spring break.

Avoid the High-Risk Destinations

When it comes to spring break, everyone knows where to to go when partying hard is at the top of the to-do list. If you're recovering from a drug or alcohol addiction, those are the areas you should avoid at all costs. Instead, choose a more low-key destination, that will allow you to relax and enjoy yourself, without the temptation to party hard.

Locate Help Ahead of Time

When you're recovering from an addiction, you need to know that help is always a phone call away. That includes while you're on vacation. Before you leave for spring break, take the time to locate a support group and treatment center in the area where you'll be vacationing. That way, you can continue with your weekly meetings while you're enjoying spring break. Not only that, but that will give you the resource you'll need should an emergency situation arise.

Know Your Triggers

When it comes to drugs and alcohol, everyone has their triggers. Those instances where you know that the next step is going to involve alcohol, drugs, or both. If you're going to head out for spring break, the trick to avoiding a relapse is to know your own triggers. Sit down and write a list of all the instances that lead you to drinking or doing drugs. Keep that list with you as a reminder of what you need to avoid while you're on vacation.

Gather Your Support Group

If you're going to be heading out for spring break, make sure the friends you're traveling with are part of your support group. The last thing you want to do is head out of town with people who don't have your best interest in mind. Your support group should be people you can lean on if you get into a sticky situation. Before you leave, share your triggers with your group. That way, they'll know what to watch for. It's also a good idea to think of a safety word. Share the word with your friends. If you say the word, they'll know to get you out of the area.