Common reasons for relapse
A relapse often occurs in response to a trigger. Understanding one’s triggers is crucial in managing and preventing relapse. As you learn to identify triggers, healthy coping strategies can be developed to help manage the strong emotional and psychological responses to them.
Emotional: Emotions can be powerful triggers for relapse. Often substance use is connected to emotions like stress, anxiety, sadness, or even happiness. When someone has used substances to help cope with (or celebrate) certain emotions, those feelings can be a trigger for past behaviours.
Environmental: Certain environments or situations can act as triggers. For example, being around people who use substances, visiting places associated with past use, or significant life changes may increase the risk of relapse.
Overconfidence: After a period of sobriety, some individuals may feel overconfident in their ability to stay sober. This can lead to risky decisions, such as returning to environments where they used substances or thinking they can have “just one drink.”
Unresolved issues: Past trauma, unresolved emotional pain, or untreated mental health conditions can contribute to relapse. Without addressing the root causes of substance use, the urge to self-medicate can resurface. It’s vital that treatment addresses any underlying issues.
Isolation and loneliness: Recovery often requires a strong support system. When someone feels isolated or disconnected, they may turn to substances as a way to cope with those feelings. Building and maintaining a support network is a key component of long-term recovery.
Physical cravings: The brain changes during addiction, and even after someone stops using, their brain can still crave the substance. These cravings can be intense and overwhelming, especially in the early stages of recovery. Cravings can be managed through therapy, medication, and other support systems.
Moving forward from relapse
Relapse can be a daunting experience, but it can also be an opportunity to heal, learn, and grow. It’s not the end of the road, it’s a chance to begin again with more strength, knowledge, and support.
It’s important to remember that relapse isn’t a failure, and that the situation needs to be approached with compassion. This may just be a signal that more support is needed or a different approach necessary on the recovery journey. Every step, including the challenging ones, is part of the process.
How we can help
Our range of programs are designed to support you at every stage of recovery. Whether it’s through inpatient treatment, outpatient programs, or ongoing support such as counselling or after care, we’re here to help. We believe in treating the whole person by addressing not just the substance use, but the underlying factors that contribute to it.
If you are concerned about yourself or a loved one experiencing relapse, please reach out. We’re here to walk this journey with you, every step of the way.