Recovery is a process, not a fixed end point. Like any meaningful path, it comes with its surprises, including setbacks like relapse. Embracing this reality allows you or your loved one to approach it with renewed strength and unwavering determination.
Understanding Relapse: What it is and Why it happens
Relapse refers to returning to alcohol or drug use after trying to quit. It can happen as a single event or unfold over time. Before a full relapse a person might experience a lapse, which is the first use of a substance after a period of recovery.
How a person responds emotionally to a lapse can make a difference, either helping them better understand their triggers and develop healthier coping strategies.
It is important to recognize that relapsing does not signify failure, but rather an opportunity for growth and learning. Recovery is not a straight line, and setbacks can provide valuable insights into personal triggers, coping mechanisms, and areas that may need more attention in treatment.
Many people in recovery find that acknowledging a lapse early on and seeking support can help prevent a full relapse. With the right help, mindset, and resources, individuals can overcome these challenges of relapse, rebuild their commitment to recovery, and continue making progress.
Relapse occurs when someone who has been working on recovery, whether from addiction, mental health issues, or another challenge, slips back into old habits or behaviors. This can happen for several reasons. One common reason is stress or emotional distress, which can trigger a person to revert to its usual coping mechanisms.
Not having enough support or not addressing small wins during a person’s recovery can trigger not just relapse but also the underlying issues can make recovery difficult, increasing the likelihood of relapse.
Environmental factors, like being around people or situations that encourage old behaviors, can also play a role. Even though relapse is common, it’s important to remember it doesn’t mean all progress is not counted, it’s often part of the recovery process.
What Triggers Relapse?
Understanding what causes relapse is crucial for staying on track in recovery and finding ways to cope with these triggers more effectively. These triggers can be emotional, social, or environmental factors that create stress or temptation, making it harder to maintain progress, some of the common triggers are:
Emotional
- Stress
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Anger
- Loneliness
- Peer pressure
- Relationship issues
Environmental
- Certain sights and smells
- Certain people or places
- Drug paraphernalia
- Boredom
Physical
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Withdrawal symptoms
- Money problems
Stages of Relapse
These stages of relapse often unfold gradually and may not always be noticed immediately, but recognizing them early can help prevent a full relapse.
- Emotional relapse
In this stage, the individual isn’t thinking directly about using substance but they’re neglecting self-care. They may start bottling up emotions, withdrawing from social connections, eating poorly, and experiencing lack of sleep.
- Mental relapse
This stage is marked by an internal struggle. An individual may begin craving substances, reminiscing about past drug or alcohol use, and rationalizing the positive while ignoring the negative outcome.
- Physical relapse
This is the stage at which substance use resumes, often escalating quickly and becoming uncontrollable, making a significant setback in the recovery process.
Small Wins Matter
Each minor achievement, no matter how small it may seem, provides a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment. Noticing that an effort is producing results, an individual may feel more motivated and committed to face challenges.
Recognizing even small steps forward helps shift focus from negative experiences to positive outcomes, boosting emotional well-being. This shift in mindset allows individuals to handle setbacks with more strength, knowing that they are capable of progress. Small wins in this journey provides motivation and encouragement, making it easier to stay committed.
Relapse Prevention Strategies
Preventing relapse over the long term involves using effective strategies that support continued recovery and strategies that support continued recovery and reduce the chances of relapse as much as possible. By focusing on their strength and commitment to recovery, minimize risks and create a more stable foundation for their well-being. Here are some key strategies.
- Avoiding triggers
Stay away from people, places and things or situations that might lead to substance use,
reduce possible relapse.
- Building support systems
Regularly connect with a supportive network of family, friends, or professionals who can
offer guidance and words or encouragement.
- Engaging in meaningful activities
Participate in activities that promote a positive self-image, like joining or trying a sports
team or community group, to create a sense of pride and belonging.
- Prioritizing self-care
Take care of both physical and mental health by getting enough sleep, eating well, and
maintaining a clean, organized environment to help prevent lapses and it will also keep
you busy throughout the day.
- Adopting a balanced lifestyle
Habits that contribute to overall well-being, including taking time to relax, avoid stress,
and engage in activities that support mental clarity like meditation, yoga, deep breathing
exercises, journaling, and such.
- Changing thought patterns
Encourage reframing challenges as learning opportunities, helping to build resilience, develop a positive self-image, and set new goals unrelated to past substance use.
Additional Strategies
Here are some additional strategies that might help prevent relapse:
- Practice mindfulness or meditation to reduce stress, enhance emotional regulation, and improve mental clarity.
- Engage in physical activity that increases overall energy levels.
- Consume a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to support brain function and emotional health.
- Prioritizing quality sleep by maintaining a regular sleep schedule, creating a restful environment.
- Spend time in nature, such as walking in parks or hiking, to improve mood, reduce stress, and enhance mental clarity.
Start Your Journey to Lasting Recovery at Milestone Health and Wellness
Take the first step toward a healthier, more fulfilling life at Milestone Health and Wellness. Dedicated to help you overcome challenges and achieve long-term recovery through personalized care and support giving you a quality drug rehab center. Let Milestone Health and Wellness guide you on your path to lasting recovery.
Your recovery starts here; discover the benefits of a 90 day drug treatment to boost your health and learn how to deal with substance abuse. Contact us and start your journey to lasting recovery.