Research suggests that between 40 to 60 percent of rehab patients will relapse at least once. It is a challenging part of the recovery process.
Is somebody you know getting treated for alcoholism or drug addiction? Then it is good to spot a potential relapse. That way you can try and prevent it before it happens.
But how do you figure it out before it is too late?
This article is here to help uncover potential signs of relapse on drugs. It also covers what relapse is and why relapses happen. Let’s take a look.
What is a Relapse?
A relapse is when an individual stops working towards their goal of sobriety. This usually means returning to using drugs or alcohol.
The process of being free of addiction is rarely a straight line. There are usually detours along the way, where someone gets back into old habits.
This can be hard to deal with both for the addict and for their family and friends. But this is a common issue, and there is a lot of research that helps us to understand the how and the why.
The good news is that even if there is a relapse, that doesn’t mean all progress gets lost. It is usually only a temporary blip, and they can get back on track.
Signs of a Relapse
When someone is about to relapse, there are a few warning signs that you can look out for. If you can spot these in advance, you may be able to prevent a relapse from happening.
These signs might look different through the different stages of relapse. It can also vary depending on if it is drug or alcohol related.
Here are a few of the most common signs to check for.
Secretive Behavior
If you notice that the person is acting secretive or lying about what they are doing, it could signal a relapse. They might start avoiding family and friends, and not engage with them.
This is because many people feel shame around relapse. But it is important to remember to not blame them, as relapse is often a natural part of the recovery process.
Shaming them for relapsing makes it less likely that they will come to you for support. So it is better that you always remind them that you are there for them.
Mood Changes
Some people when they are about to relapse show signs of mood change. They may be more irritable than before, or more sad and self-destructive. It could also be that they change mood very fast, flipping from happy to sad in moments.
Helping them to recognize their behaviors gives them a better understanding of themselves.
Try and get them to verbalize how they are feeling, or suggest they write down their feelings. This might give them more clarity on why they are feeling so emotional.
Cravings
One of the most common warning signs of relapse is drug or alcohol cravings. if they are verbalizing that they are having these cravings, then it is a good time to step in.
Try and get to the root of the craving. Check that they are eating well, that they have slept well, and that they feel emotionally secure. Exercise can also help with cravings, so make sure they get some time outside.
Impulsiveness
Another key sign is impulsiveness. If you notice them acting in a careless way like spending money they don’t have, they could be in danger of relapse.
Try and give that person the opportunity to think before they act.
For example, if they want to buy something that they can’t afford. Try and create a break in their thought process by saying you’ll come back later and get it. This gives them a chance to breathe and rethink, and it could work the same for drugs or alcohol.
Relapse Triggers
A common theme with relapse is a return to previous triggers of addiction. This could be going back to a location where they used to take drugs. Or it could be meeting with people who they used to spend time with.
Repeating these habits is more likely to cause relapse. This is because it is easier for the brain to use pathways it has already created. So falling back into old patterns is easy.
It can be hard for people to form new pathways, but the more they repeat the new, clean habits the easier it becomes.
Why Do Relapses Happen?
Relapses are common and they can happen even to the most dedicated patient. In the long process of sobriety, it is easy for things to trigger a relapse.
A few of the most common causes of relapse are:
- Tempting situations or people
- Coping mechanism for stressful circumstances
- Other co-occurring mental health problems
- Physical withdrawal symptoms
- Guilt caused by relapsing
These reasons can all be managed by the support of friends and family. As long as there is an open conversation with those involved, there is no reason that they cannot get back on track.
Fighting Relapse on Drugs
A relapse on drugs is a common problem during the recovery process. It can be difficult for both the patient and those around them when relapse strikes.
The best way to move past it is to acknowledge the reasons it happened and try to build new habits around sobriety.
If you’re looking for a supportive environment for rehabilitation, choose Apex Recovery Center. We are experts in the recovery process, offering many programs for those with an addiction. With highly trained staff and custom facilities, recovery is around the corner.
Get in touch today to find out more about our recovery programs. We are here to help you on your journey.