Relapse Signs
A relapse occurs when someone who has recovered from addiction returns to their former substance abuse habits. Some people are able to stop themselves quickly before they become addicted again, while others are at an increased risk of developing a dependency again. Relapse is always frustrating and dangerous to an extent, which is why it’s important for those recovering from addiction to be able to recognize the signs of a relapse.
There is a difference between a major relapse and a less serious incident. A slip is a less severe and possibly isolated incident of substance use. This is a setback that won’t necessarily become a full relapse. The best way to handle a slip is to have a pre-existing plan in place to call a mentor or support group that will help prevent turning a slip into a relapse. It is likely that the person will have feelings of guilt, shame, and failure after a slip, and these feelings can trigger the urge to use them once again.
Warning Signs of Relapse
The best way to avoid slips and relapses is to have a prevention plan and the ability to recognize relapse warning signs within one’s self. People in recovery should learn which questions to ask themselves and have an appropriate response to relapse triggers. There are nine warning signs of relapse common among most people.
- Associating with people who enabled the addiction. Peers who encourage drug use are very difficult to resist and will hinder relapse prevention efforts.
- Losing personal connections with positive people. If a person finds that they are arguing with friends and family, lying, resenting help offered, and spending less time with family, they are at a greater risk for relapse.
- A loss of interest in old hobbies, which shifts their focus to negative feelings
- Romanticizing past drug use and thinking only of the fun times
- Believing you can use without falling back into addiction
- Sliding back into negative habits and patterns and feeling defensive
- Changes in attitude and behavior such as bouts of depression and loneliness
- The appearance of withdrawal symptoms
- Loss of belief in the addiction recovery process
If a person notices these signs of a relapse, they should have a plan of action that includes support to help them avoid a full relapse. In the event of a relapse, a person may have to return to rehab.
Find a Rehab for Drug Addiction
If you are experiencing relapse warning signs and need help now, contact BetterAddictionCare. Our compassionate addiction care specialists will speak with you confidentially and help you determine what sort of treatment you need. We can assist you with finding a cost-effective rehab near you. Call today or fill out our contact form to get help now.
Resources
National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2018).
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2020).
American Addiction Centers. (n.d.).
Gorski, T. T., & Miller, M. (2017).
Witkiewitz, K., & Marlatt, G. A. (2013).
Marlatt, G. A., & Donovan, D. M. (2005).
McKay, J. R. (2013).
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