Typically, this phase begins with a singular lapse, meaning a person may have one alcoholic drink, for example. However, a person should note that occasional thoughts of using or cravings are a typical part of recovery. They should not have unrealistic expectations, which may involve never thinking about using substances again. Laura Morris is an experienced clinical practitioner and CQC Registered Manager with over twenty years experience, over ten of which have been as an Independent Nurse Prescriber.
Common Triggers
Addiction should not be thought of in a positive way; addiction does more harm than it does good, and it will remain a chronic brain condition. It is not possible for an individual to use drugs casually, or drink on social occasions, regardless of the techniques they have learned in therapy. Reliving addiction in a different light ignores the negative consequences that accompany using. This will trigger the first mental stage of relapse, followed by the physical relapse. This may occur when a person thinks about a previous experience of using substances. You may also stop attending meetings or showing up for recovery commitments.
The “High-Risk Situation”: Relapse Triggers
- This cycle can repeat through relapses, but it can also be broken with the proper support and intervention.
- A healthcare professional can help a person develop the skills they need to manage any urges they have to reuse.
- However, people who slip and don’t seek help often experience a physical relapse.
- You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
- Don’t wait — contact a Recovery Advocate today to see how we can help.
- Relapse is an obstacle on the path to recovery, but it’s an obstacle that can be overcome.
Most people in recovery from addiction are always vulnerable to relapse. A critical step in overcoming this stage of relapse is to practice self-care in its physical, psychological, and emotional aspects. This means making time for eating, sleeping, and having fun, as well as behaving kind enough toward yourself that you permit yourself these necessities.
Understanding Alcohol Relapse
Being patient and empathetic is important, recognizing that rebuilding trust takes time. First, expressing sincere regret for past actions and demonstrating a commitment to recovery is essential. Open, honest communication and establishing healthy boundaries are foundational to rebuilding trust. According to a PubMed study, these medications contribute to improvements in overall medical and mental health and quality of life. Another effective form of therapy includes medication-assisted treatment (MAT), which combines FDA-approved medications with counseling to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings.
After a relapse, individuals in recovery must revisit and potentially revise their recovery plan. This process is not just about damage control; it’s about understanding what led to the relapse and how to strengthen the strategy to prevent future setbacks. Mindfulness techniques also play a significant role in managing post-relapse emotions. Mindfulness encourages individuals to stay present and aware of their feelings without judgment, which can reduce the intensity of negative emotions and prevent impulsive behaviors. Incorporating mindfulness into daily routines can foster a sense of calm and increase resilience against stress, a common trigger for relapse. One effective approach is the utilization of cognitive-behavioral strategies, which involve identifying and challenging negative thought patterns that contribute to substance abuse.
- Either way, a relapse is the clearest sign you could possibly see that action needs to be taken, and changes need to be made.
- For people who are concerned about their use of alcohol, drugs, or other behaviors, like gambling or self-harm.
- Addiction is a chronic illness requiring lifelong management, so relapses are possible.
Signs of Tolerance and Dependence
A mental relapse is where we are conflicted between wanting to use and wanting to continue with our new way of life. We think about the old days, minimize the damage that the substances caused in our lives, and hang out with old friends. We may start telling ourselves that we can use substances again successfully. Using coping skills and our tools can help us get through this stage. Sometimes, you unknowingly begin taking steps toward a relapse weeks or months before actually drinking or using drugs. Certain thoughts, feelings, and events may trigger cravings and urges for drugs and alcohol, and, if not properly dealt with, may increase your chances of relapsing.
A Lapse Doesn’t Have to Be a Return to Addiction
National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA), in 2017, an estimated 20.7 million people (aged 12 and older) needed treatment for a SUD. However, only 4 million people received treatment, or just 19% – less than a fifth. Often, it’s your support network that notices something is wrong long before you do, and they can get you the help you need or encourage you to do so yourself, should need be. Even if it’s just one or two people who really care, they could mean the difference between a second relapse or a life of fulfilling sobriety. Life might be messy or busy, and you start what to do after a relapse neglecting things like self-care and expressing your feelings.
Focus On Creating A New Lifestyle
Once you have reflected on the experience of relapsing you will have better scope to predict challenges you will face in the future. Whether you wish to go into intensive treatment, go into outpatient care, or otherwise, you will need to prepare yourself for discomfort and struggle. Remember not to judge yourself, and remain positive about the opportunity that you have to regain your sobriety, making it your focus.
While no path in recovery is a straight line, a person in recovery actively attempts abstinence, harm-reduction education, and application of said education. Counterproductive, and, if they are allowed to fester because you have not made the necessary changes, they will not allow you to get successfully back on track, think of it this way. Relapse is part of the learning process of determining what will work for your particular situation. Addiction recoveries do not all follow the same clinical pattern, as a person’s circumstances, history, genetics, and so on, are always different. However, there are those in addiction recovery that never get over the impact of their first (and only) relapse, and the plethora of intense emotions that come with it. A relapse provides a clear warning that either something is missing from your current process of recovery, or something that is part of that process is simply not working as it should do.
Either way, a relapse is the clearest sign you could possibly see that action needs to be taken, and changes need to be made. It is important to do some self-reflection and figure out what happened. Think about what triggered the relapse and the feelings and events leading up to it.
