Relapse is a common and often feared part of drug addiction treatment and recovery, but it doesn’t have to be. Relapse is an expected setback in the recovery process for some, but a setback is just that: a setback. It doesn’t mean failure or permanent damage to your progress toward sobriety. So hang tight, give your “drug addiction treatment near me” searches a rest, and understand how relapse is not a failure.
Understanding why relapse happens and how to prevent it can help you stay motivated and on track in your journey to sobriety. In this post, we’ll explore the causes of relapse, how to cope with it, and strategies for avoiding relapse altogether. At Recovery Center of the Carolinas, we are here to help you through your struggle for sobriety!
What Is a Relapse?
When it comes to drug addiction treatment and recovery, relapse is often seen as a sign of failure. But this isn’t always the case.
Addiction is a chronic disease. And as with any other chronic illness, it has its ups and downs. There will be times when you are doing well and times when you are not.
Relapse is one of the challenges you may face during drug rehab in Fayetteville, NC. But it doesn’t have to be seen as a failure. If you relapse, it doesn’t mean that you are a terrible person or can’t recover from addiction. It just means you need to get back on track and keep working towards your goal of sobriety.
If you do find yourself relapsing, don’t give up hope. You can still get back on track and achieve your goals.
The Causes of Relapse
When someone with an addiction relapses, it can be challenging to understand why. After all, they’ve been through drug addiction treatment and should be on the path to recovery. But relapse is prevalent, and it’s important to understand that it’s not a sign of failure.
There are multiple causes of relapse, and the situation is different for each person:
Stress
Stress is a major trigger for relapse. It can lead people to turn to drugs or alcohol as a coping mechanism. This can be especially true if they don’t have healthy coping mechanisms.
Boredom
Boredom can also lead to relapse. People may start using again because they’re bored and have nothing else to do. This is often the case when people are in the early recovery phase and haven’t yet developed a strong support system or hobbies outside of drug use.
Triggers
Triggers can remind someone of their drug use and lead to cravings. Common triggers include people, places, things, and emotions. People in recovery need to identify their triggers and learn how to avoid them or healthily deal with them.
If you do relapse, the best thing you can do is reach out for help immediately. Talk to your sponsor, therapist, or doctor about what happened and how you feel. They can help you get back on track and avoid future relapses.
Signs That Indicate You Are at Risk for Relapse
If you are in recovery from addiction, it is vital to be aware of the signs that indicate you might be at risk of relapsing. While relapse is not a sign of failure, it can be a setback for you on your road to recovery. Thus knowing that you’re walking down this road as early on as possible is your best bet for staying on track during recovery.
Here are some signs that you might undergo relapse.
#1) You Are Isolating Yourself From Your Support System
If you find yourself withdrawing from your friends and family, it could be a sign that you are at risk for relapse. It is essential to stay connected to your support system during recovery.
#2) You Are Not Attending Meetings Or Therapy Sessions
If you start skipping meetings or therapy sessions, it could be a sign that you are losing touch with your sobriety goals. It is vital to stay engaged in your drug addiction treatment plan.
#3) You Are Using Drugs Or Alcohol Again
If you start using drugs or alcohol again, it is a clear sign that you are at risk for relapse. If you slip up, you must reach out for help immediately to get back on track.
Recovery Is A Difficult Concept
Most people associate the term “recovery” with someone completely drug or alcohol-free. However, it is crucial to stress that recovery is a broad concept.
For example, if you are decreasing your alcohol consumption, you are in recovery. If you have been sober for a specific time, you are also in recovery.
Relapses Are Part of the Recovery Process
Instead of viewing relapse as a failure, consider it a warning that it’s time to revise your drug addiction treatment strategy.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, a relapse implies that a recovering addict should consult with a specialist about changing their therapy or maybe returning to treatment. Creating a strategy with relapse prevention methods can be beneficial and minimize the chance of future relapses.
Researchers discovered that a comprehensive relapse prevention plan should assist patients in recognizing the early indications of relapse and developing coping skills for dealing with stress, cravings, and drug-related thoughts. Cognitive therapy and relaxation methods can be effective therapies for relapse prevention.
How to Prevent Relapse
Relapse is not a sign of failure. But it’s best avoided to ensure that the recovery process goes on smoothly.
Here are some tips for preventing relapse:
#1) Understand Your Triggers
These can be stress, anxiety, depression, boredom, or even just seeing drug paraphernalia. Once you know what your triggers are, you can avoid them or have a plan to deal with them if they arise.
#2) Stick to Your Drug Addiction Treatment Plan
You must attend all therapy sessions regularly and take any medications prescribed to you. It’s also important to continue attending support groups after a successful drug addiction treatment plan and staying involved in sober activities.
#3) Stay Connected To Your Support System
Try to strengthen bonds with your family, friends, and loved ones willing to help you recover.
#4) Take Care Of Yourself Physically And Mentally
Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep can help you maintain sobriety. Managing any underlying mental health conditions is also crucial.
#5) Be Prepared For Setbacks
Relapse can happen even if you do everything right. If it does occur, try to view it as a learning experience and get back on track as soon as possible.
Stop Googling For “Drug Addiction Treatment Near Me,” Get Help From Our Clinic For Drug Rehab In Fayetteville, NC Now!
Change is challenging, and there may be setbacks along the road, but it is possible to live a clean life with recovery assistance. If you’re struggling with addiction troubles and want to start living a clean lifestyle, Recovery Center of the Carolinas is here for you. We offer comprehensive drug addiction treatment services, including aftercare and relapse prevention planning.
Contact us now for drug rehab in Fayetteville, NC to get started on the road to recovery!
