Our blog provides news, information, and motivation to help individuals start or continue on their recovery journey from drug and alcohol addiction. If you haven’t struggled with addiction, it’s hard to comprehend just how strongly substance abuse can hijack the brain, making it extremely difficult to stop using drugs or alcohol. By definition, relapse refers to a state of deterioration following a time of improvement. A “relapse” in recovery often describes a return to problematic drinking after a period of sobriety or moderation. Relapse often occurs when someone loses touch with their treatment plan and typically involves more serious consequences. Relapse may lead to a return to risky behavior, harm to personal or professional relationships, or a setback in health outcomes.

You might need to go back to your support system and admit that you need treatment again. However, addiction is a disease, and you are still vulnerable to relapsing. Addiction recovery is hard, which is why many avoid facing their issues. But you went through the process and faced your challenges. After a relapse, you should reach out to your sponsor, therapist or your support system. Being honest about your relapse among your peers is the best way to deal with it.

Recommit to Sobriety

Another way to stay healthy and avoid relapse is by learning to steer clear of your triggers. This could be anything from stress to people who encourage you to use drugs or alcohol. Sometimes, it makes sense to start over somewhere new. It’s important to create a relapse prevention plan for transitioning back to regular life post-treatment. It is crucial to understand how certain things can sabotage sobriety, such as dysfunctional family dynamics, toxic friendships, social isolation and unhealthy daily routines. Clearly identifying triggers early on can help you protect your newfound sobriety.

This may be a sign that the treatment you were using wasn’t right for you. If you weren’t before, it’s time to get professional help either in the form of therapy, inpatient treatment, or another means that works for your individual needs. A relapse does not mean you have given up on yourself or your recovery. Relapse after a period of sobriety is an unfortunately common occurrence.

What is a Relapse & What to Do After Relapsing

This lapse, in turn, can result in feelings of guilt and failure, i.e., the “abstinence violation effect. This abstinence violation effect, along with a perceived positive outcome, can increase the probability of a relapse. Now isn’t the time to grit your teeth and go it on your own. Whether you get help from support groups, therapists, religious leaders or friends and family, get help. Not everyone in your circle of family and friends will be prepared to help, so try to find professionals such as therapists whose job it is to understand and be there for you. You are an important part of your loved one’s long-term recovery.

If you have relapsed, this is what you need to know and do. Family or friends who still partake in your substance of choice may pressure you to do the same. Other times, just being around people who are drinking or using can be a trigger and lead to a relapse.

Most Common Risk Factors for Relapse

Sam not only brings to the table his successful career owning and managing successful treatment facilities around the country but his dedication to creating an environment for healing. Sam obtained his Masters in Psychology what to do after a relapse and Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University. Relapses don’t happen the moment someone in recovery uses drugs or drinks alcohol. The relapse process actually starts before the physical act takes place.

Learning how to avoid your triggers is an important step in drug and alcohol recovery. You may be feeling ashamed, guilty or disappointed after a relapse. https://ecosoberhouse.com/ These feelings are normal, but you shouldn’t wallow in them. Remember that everyone makes mistakes in life and learning from them will make you stronger.

Technology Addiction

Approximately half of all recovering addicts experience a temporary moment of weakness that results in picking up drugs or alcohol again. Knowing some of the red flags can help you avoid this. Instead, use this relapse as a learning tool; clarify your relapse prevention plan and identify your triggers.