In a post-pandemic world, life is anything but normal. People are still recovering from the outbreak of the virus that brought down so many, and there is a sense of unease among survivors. The pandemic has left some irrevocably damaged, and others have found ways to cope with their brokenness in ways that aren’t healthy.
It’s not uncommon for people to relapse during this time, but it doesn’t have to mean the end of your recovery. Here are some steps you can take to help you get back on track after relapsing during this difficult time.
Make a Plan
It can be hard to see a way out when you’re in the middle of a relapse. If you don’t have a plan in place, getting stuck in this space can be easy. Even if you’ve been through this before, you may find that your present circumstances make it harder to get back on track.
Make a plan for when you start to feel the relapse coming on. Make a rule for yourself about what things you will and won’t do. Know your triggers. Don’t try to work through your relapses alone; ask for help.
It might also help to revisit the relapse prevention plan you created when you were in treatment before the pandemic. By doing this, you can remind yourself of the necessary steps to get back on the road to recovery.
Get Professional Help
You don’t have to do this alone. If this is the first time you’ve relapsed, there is no shame in admitting you need help. You are not alone, and there are many people who can support you through this difficult time.
Be honest with yourself and with others. You don’t have to try and figure it out by yourself. Don’t be afraid to try different types of therapies.
You may be inclined to go for therapy that deals with the root cause of your addiction, but that might not be the best thing for you right now. Many different kinds of therapy can help you deal with your relapse in different ways.
Find someone who resonates with you and your current needs.
Find a New Purpose
One of the best ways to help you get through a relapse is to find a new purpose. This is especially important if you are around other people still in early recovery. You may not realize how much of an impact your behavior has on others.
The best way to help others stay on track is to be an example of a successful recovery. The best way to do that is to find a new purpose in life that isn’t tied to your addiction. Again, you don’t have to go through this alone.
If you need help figuring out your purpose, there are many groups that can help you find it. There are also many ways to find a purpose. You could volunteer, you could try something creative, or you could help others.
Be Gentle With Yourself
You’re going through a lot, and you deserve to be gentle with yourself during this time. Be kind to yourself physically, and don’t push yourself too hard.
You might need to take a step back from your normal life to deal with your relapse. That’s okay.
Make sure you are taking time to care for your mental health and your physical health. Don’t forget about self-care, either. You need to take care of yourself to be able to help others. Find ways to relax and enjoy yourself during this time.
Take Care of Your Body
One of the first things they teach you in treatment is how crucial it is to take care of yourself as a whole. This includes mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
You’re going through a lot right now, and one way to help yourself is to take care of your body. Eating well, getting enough sleep, and staying hydrated can help you feel a little bit better during this difficult time.
There are other things you can do too. You can find ways to de-stress, get enough sunlight, and practice self-love through things like meditation, yoga, or taking a bath.
Take care of your body, and you will feel stronger and better equipped to deal with this relapse.
Don’t Forget to Celebrate the Good Moments
Life is tough, and there are bound to be more relapses as the pandemic continues to worsen. That doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy the good moments in between.
Celebrate the small victories, no matter how small they may seem. Celebrate the good times with friends and loved ones. Take care of yourself during this time, and you will get through it.
You are strong enough to get through this. There are plenty of ways to get through a relapse, but it requires a lot of self-care, patience, and determination. It can be scary and feel like you’re back at square one, but remember that you are stronger than your addiction.
You can get back on track with hard work and perseverance. You can recover from this relapse and come out stronger than ever before.
Relapsing During the Pandemic
When you’re dealing with relapsing during the pandemic, it’s challenging to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Remember to be kind to yourself and revisit your relapse prevention plan.
Your plan can help remind you how to avoid relapse and what relapse signs to be aware of. Are you ready to rebound after a relapse? Contact Apex Recovery.