Don't Give Up: Relapse Isn't Failure

Are you a recovering alcoholic or addict who has recently relapsed on your old substance of abuse?  Relapse can leave you feeling discouraged and even hopeless, in some cases.  But instead of thinking of relapse as a failed attempt at sobriety, think of it as a step on the path to long-term recovery.

What is relapse?

Relapse occurs when a recovering alcoholic or addict returns to the substance they used to abuse.  According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), part of the National Institute of Health, addiction relapse rates range from 40-60%, which are similar to the relapse rates for asthma, diabetes, and hypertension.

Why does relapse happen?

The reasons for relapse vary by individual and even substance. One of the most common reasons that relapse occurs is because of triggers.  A trigger is an environmental factor that, for varying reasons, causes the recovering addict to relapse on the substance.  Seeing an old friend or passing by an old hangout might remind the recovering addict of their past social interactions; stressful situations or negative emotional states are other possible triggers. Additionally, poor coping skills may contribute to a recovering addict’s risk of relapse. According to a report from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), research indicates that recovering heroin addicts are at higher risk of relapse if social pressure is involved whereas negative emotional states or bad interpersonal relationships are high risks for an alcoholic relapse.  In some cases, recovering addicts relapse as a way to test their ability to control their use, which often backfires.

Is anyone at an increased risk for relapse?

According to a SAMHSA report, adolescents may be more vulnerable to relapse because of their volatile life stage.  People who are going through major life events – like divorce, death of a loved one, and recent loss of job – may also be at increased risk.

Are there any risks associated with relapse?

In addition to the potential side effects and medical consequences of abusing alcohol, prescription drugs, illicit substances or behaviors like gambling and sex, relapse is sometimes associated with overdoses.  Recovering addicts may return to the same amount or dose of a substance that they were administering before they decided to seek help.  However, during their period of sobriety, their body’s tolerance of the substance may have decreased.  Therefore, the body is not prepared to handle the high dose and an overdose occurs (Read Overdose).

How can future relapses be avoided?

There are a few things you can do to decrease the chances of a relapse again in the future.  First, identify your triggers and reduce their presence in your life if it is not possible to complete eliminate them. Next, find positive alternatives to replace the people and activities you had to give up to remain sober. Another option would be to consider helping someone else to reinforce the importance of being substance-free in your own life (Read Reasons to Become a Sponsor).  Importantly, know yourself.  Dedicate some time to analyzing the warning signs –thoughts, moods, triggers, etc. – that appeared before your past relapse(s). Next, develop a plan for how you will address the warning signs when they appear.  It may be beneficial to enlist the help of family, friends, or your therapist. For more suggestions, read Reduce the Risk of Relapse.

What can I do if my relapse has led to full-blown addiction?

In some cases, a relapse can send a recovering alcoholic or addict back into addiction.  If you find yourself or someone else in this situation, you may benefit from professional assistance.  This may include anything from going back to Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous meetings, seeing a therapist, enrolling in an outpatient treatment program, or finding a rehab facility.  The next step will depend on the severity of the relapse and addiction as well as the recovering addict’s past history with substance abuse.  We encourage you to contact eDrugRehab today to discuss your specific situation.