How to Deal with a Relapse

Relapse is a common part of the recovery process and does not mean failure. Many individuals in recovery experience setbacks, but with the right relapse prevention plan, they can regain stability and continue their road to recovery. Understanding stages of relapse, identifying common triggers, and developing healthy coping mechanisms can help reduce the risk for relapse and support long-term sobriety.

Understanding the Concept of Relapse

Addiction relapse refers to a return to substance abuse after a period of sobriety. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, relapse rates for substance use disorder are similar to those of other chronic conditions like medical illnesses or mental disorders. However, experiencing a full-blown relapse does not indicate a sign of failure. Instead, it highlights the need to adjust one’s treatment plan and strengthen coping skills.

Recognizing the Stages of Relapse

Emotional Relapse: Signs and Symptoms

Emotional relapse is the first stage of relapse, where uncomfortable feelings and negative behaviors start to emerge. Common warning signs include:

• Suppressing negative feelings
• Increased stress and anxiety
• Lack of self-care, such as healthy eating and regular exercise
• Withdrawal from a strong support network

Mental Relapse: How to Identify It

During mental relapse, a person in recovery experiences an internal struggle between staying sober and craving substance use. Predictors of relapse in this stage include:

• Memories of drug use resurfacing
• Associating with people or places linked to drug addiction
• Rationalizing or planning a controlled return to alcohol use disorder or drug abuse

Physical Relapse: What to Look For

Physical relapse occurs when someone actively uses again. It can start with a glass of wine or “just one time” but may escalate quickly. Danger of relapse increases if external triggers, such as social pressures or high-risk environments, are not managed effectively.

Identifying Risk Factors for Relapse

Stressful Life Events

A traumatic experience, job loss, or difficult time in relationships can increase the risk of relapse. Seeking support from a mental health professional or family therapy sessions can help.

Social Triggers and Temptations

Being around individuals who still engage in alcohol abuse or drug rehab can act as a potential trigger. A sober friend or supportive friends can offer alternative social support.

Environmental Factors

Returning to places associated with substance abuse can lead to relapse risks. Rehab recovery or a recovery coach can provide guidance on avoiding high-risk settings.

Acknowledge Your Emotions Post-Relapse

Experiencing a relapse process can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, and self-doubt. However, shame in addiction recovery can be counterproductive feelings that prevent growth.

Reframing Your Perspective on Relapse

A common misconception is that relapse means failure. In reality, it is part of the lifelong process of recovery from substance use. Viewing relapse as a learning experience can help strengthen relapse prevention techniques.

Seeking Support After a Relapse

Importance of Therapy

Engaging in individual therapy, behavioral therapy, or relapse prevention therapy with a healthcare professional can help you process emotions and rebuild a treatment plan.

Joining Support Groups

Self-help options like Alcoholics Anonymous, SMART Recovery, or self-help groups can provide a safe space for sharing experiences and receiving encouragement.

Reaching Out to Friends and Family

A network of friends and family plays a critical role in recovery support systems. Family therapy can also help rebuild trust and address emotional issues caused by relapse.

Reflecting on the Relapse Experience

Analyzing What Led to the Relapse

Identifying personal triggers, internal triggers, and external triggers can help prevent future relapses. Keeping a journal or speaking with treatment providers can aid in this process.

Extracting Lessons for Future Prevention

Rather than focusing on personal failure, use the relapse as an opportunity to improve relapse prevention skills.

Developing Coping Mechanisms

Healthy Outlets for Stress

Incorporating healthy coping skills, such as video games in moderation, art, or excessive exercise, can provide relief from negative feelings.

Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques

Techniques like meditation and deep breathing are effective in managing emotional triggers and stress.

Implementing Relapse Prevention Strategies

Creating a Personal Action Plan

A well-structured relapse prevention plan should address common triggers and establish healthy coping mechanisms to reduce the chances of relapse.

Building a Support Network

A strong support network with supportive friends, sober friends, and professionals can reinforce long-term sobriety.

Considering Treatment Alternatives

Re-entering a Structured Program

If a relapse has occurred multiple times, a recovery program or inpatient program might be necessary. Professional treatments can provide additional support.

Exploring New Therapeutic Approaches

Alternative therapies, such as Family Therapy or Relapse prevention therapy, can offer new coping strategies.

Fostering Resilience and Long-Term Recovery

Lifelong recovery is a difficult journey, but each setback can strengthen a person’s commitment to the recovery process. If you or a loved one needs support, Tennessee Behavioral Health offers addiction treatment programs, mental health services, and personalized treatment options to help you stay on the path to recovery. Contact us today to learn more about our recovery support systems and how we can assist you in maintaining long-term sobriety.