Relapse is a common, frequently misunderstood aspect of substance use recovery. People may return to drugs and alcohol for various reasons that seem justifiable under the circumstances. Recognizing the warning signs of a potential relapse can empower you to seek help early and guide your recovery back on track.
Understanding Relapse
Healing from a substance use disorder is a profoundly personal, usually non-linear process. Resuming substance use after a period of abstinence is part of the experience for many people.
Instead of viewing relapse as an automatic failure, you must treat it as an opportunity for learning and growth. Often, it indicates issues that your original aftercare plan did not address or the emergence of new stressors that need effective management strategies.
Protect Your Progress by Recognizing Relapse Cues
Being vigilant about the potential of a relapse can stop you from having one. Here are some critical indicators to watch for.
1. Changes in Attitude or Behavior
A noticeable shift in your feelings about recovery can be a preliminary sign of relapse. You may become unmotivated and lose interest in meeting with your therapist, sponsor or support group, or get complacent about the importance of continued vigilance.
2. Social Isolation
Withdrawing from supportive friends and family often precedes a return to substance use. Rejecting help from loved ones could signify feelings of inadequacy or failure, leading you to believe you are a burden or do not deserve help.
3. Increased Stress
Stress is a significant relapse trigger. You may use drugs or alcohol to cope in the absence of effective stress management techniques. Signs of unmanaged stress include anxiety, irritability, mood swings and sleep disturbances.
4. Romanticizing Past Substance Use
Talking nostalgically about drug use or downplaying the negative consequences are red flags. This romanticizing can indicate a shift in perception that might make substance use seem appealing again. Reconnecting with old friends who still drink or use drugs can be a dangerous precursor to relapse.
5. Skipping or Stopping Treatment
Neglecting to attend therapy sessions or support group meetings is a clear-cut sign of a potential relapse. It often indicates a lack of commitment to the process, making it easier to revert to old habits.
6. Mental Health Fluctuations
Signs of depression, anxiety or other mental health issues can be a cause and effect of relapse. People in recovery must have access to counseling to manage these challenges effectively.
Preventing and Managing Relapse
Take proactive steps to prevent a relapse if you recognize any of these warning signs.
- Strengthen your support network: Keep meeting with your therapist, going to recovery group meetings and keeping trusted friends and family updated about your progress.
- Use healthy coping mechanisms: Practice stress management techniques like meditation, exercise and hobbies.
- Continuing education and awareness: Staying informed about the nature of addiction and recovery can empower you to keep making progress on your goals.
Understanding Relapse as a Call for Help
It’s time to seek help if you have returned to substance use after a period of sustained sobriety or feel you are on the verge of relapsing.
At Hemet Valley Recovery Center & Sage Retreat, we understand recovery is a dynamic process requiring ongoing effort and adaptation. We offer a comprehensive continuum of care for clients at all stages of recovery, helping them identify, manage and overcome the challenges that might lead to relapse. Remember, relapse isn’t the end of the road – it’s a signal to reassess your progress and strengthen the strategies that enable you to achieve long-term freedom from substance abuse. We encourage you to reach out to our caring, knowledgeable admissions team today to request more information.