Relapse is the return to substance abuse after being drug- or alcohol-free. Due to the chronic nature of addiction, relapse is often part of the disease. In fact, close to half of people who experience drug or alcohol addiction also experience relapses in recovery.
What are the stages of a relapse?
Here is a list of the stages of relapse:
Emotional Relapse: During this stage, the individual is not necessarily thinking about having a drink or using drugs, but they’re neglecting self-care. They might start to bottle up emotions, isolate themselves from others, eat poorly, and not sleep well.
Mental Relapse: This stage becomes an internal tug-of-war and includes cravings for drugs and alcohol: nostalgic feelings for the people, places, and things associated with alcohol and drug use, and lying to themselves about the consequences that come with it.
Physical Relapse: At this point, drinking and/or drug use begins and quickly escalates to an uncontrollable level.
What are possible triggers for a relapse?
Certain internal or external cues can activate the urge to drink or use drugs, increasing the risk of relapse. While triggers are unique to individuals, here is a list of common ones of which to be mindful:
Depression
Anxiety
Stress
Anger
Peer pressure
Fatigue
Loneliness
Withdrawal symptoms
Insomnia
Relationship issues
Drug paraphernalia
Certain physical settings, sights, and smells
How can I prevent a relapse?
Here is a list of things you can do to reduce your risk of relapse:
Eat a healthy diet.
Get quality sleep.
Exercise regularly.
Consider other complementary and holistic methods for managing stress naturally, like yoga and meditation.
Join a self-help group, attend meetings regularly, and actively participate.
Attend groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA).
Surround yourself with positive and supportive people.
Ask for help when needed.
Be completely honest with those in your recovery circle, including family members, doctors, counselors, self-help group participants, and sponsors.
Attend all therapy and counseling sessions.
Take any prescribed medications or supplements as directed.
Avoid people, places, or things that are associated with previous drug or alcohol use.
Engage in creativity, like painting, sculpting, writing, dancing, or playing an instrument.
Keep your mind occupied.