One of the most unfortunate and common occurrences in a recovery journey is a relapse. A relapse occurs when an addict or alcoholic returns to substance use after reducing or avoiding the substance for some time.
Many factors can trigger a relapse, and not everyone will have the same triggers. It’s important to understand relapses and their potential causes in order to take preventive measures.
What Causes Relapse in Addicts and Alcoholics?
It’s hard to pinpoint the exact cause of a relapse, as each person is different.
Common causes include:
- Biological factors: Chemical changes in the brain from prolonged substance use can make breaking the addiction physically challenging due to painful withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
- Psychological factors: Unresolved trauma and co-occurring mental disorders increase the risk of returning to substance use.
- Environmental factors: Access to substances and a lack of support systems can contribute to the chances of a relapse.
How Common Is Relapse in Recovery?
According to various studies, 40-60% of individuals in recovery relapse at some point. A relapse doesn’t mean the addict doesn’t want to recover, but the nature of addiction makes relapses a chronic part of the condition.
A return to drugs or drinking alcohol doesn’t mean failure. It’s an opportunity to strengthen your recovery plan.
What Are the Most Common Relapse Triggers?
Everyone is different, so not everything will cause a relapse.
Common triggers include:
- Stress
- Negative emotions like anger and loneliness
- Social situations
- Overconfidence
Some ways to reduce triggers include stress management, healthy boundaries, communicating with a supportive group, and therapy.
Why Do Addicts Relapse Even After Long Periods of Sobriety?
There could be various reasons why someone might relapse after staying sober for a long period of time.
People in recovery can forget the pain of addiction after staying sober for so long. Paired with skipping support group meetings can lead to complacency and a lack of accountability, resulting in a potential relapse.
Major life changes like losing a job or an important relationship can disrupt routines and trigger a relapse. Even after years of sobriety, neurological cues can resurface. Lifelong commitment to a relapse prevention plan is crucial in order to maintain sobriety.
How Does Stress Contribute to Relapse?
What’s interesting about stress hormones and their ties to relapses is that they can mimic withdrawal and intensify cravings. It’s important to manage stress in order to avoid relapse.
Some ways to manage everyday stress include:
- Physical exercise
- Therapy
- Deep breathing exercises
- Prioritizing sleep and a healthy diet
Why Do Addicts Relapse When Things Are Going Well?
This is due to something called the “pink cloud” phase. The initial emotional high of recovery eventually fades to boredom or overconfidence. This phase can disrupt long-term recovery and stem from low self-worth or a fear of success.
Maintaining structure and ongoing support group meetings helps reduce the risk of overconfidence and relapse.
What Are the Stages of Relapse?
Relapse starts before the time of use. It begins with an emotional relapse, which could be triggered by stress or a negative life change. Then, a mental relapse brings thoughts of substance use, and if not stopped, results in the eventual physical use.
Proactive monitoring, ongoing support group meetings, and seeking help in the early stages can keep things from progressing.
How Can I Prevent Relapse?
Preventing a relapse starts with the strategic measures you take to avoid returning to drugs or alcohol.
Key strategies include:
- Building a support system
- Avoiding personal triggers
- Therapy
- Adopting a healthy lifestyle
Addiction Treatment at Into Action Recovery
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, Into Action Recovery is here to help. Our compassionate and experienced team provides personalized treatment plans to guide you toward lasting sobriety. Don’t wait—take the first step towards a healthier, happier life today.
