The journey to recovery from an addiction is filled with challenges that can sometimes lead people back to their addictive behaviours.
A relapse means you return to previous behaviours after you’ve controlled them or abstained completely for a period of time. Unlike a lapse, which is a short-lived or one-off return, a relapse involves a full return to the addictive behaviour.
It’s normal to experience cravings and challenging moments when you’re recovering from an addiction. Learning to recognise the warning signs of relapse can help you to take preventative action.
Everyone is different and has a unique experience of their addiction and recovery. But here are some common warning signs of relapse, including:
If you’re experiencing a lapse or relapse, be kind to yourself; it’s not the end of your journey. Take steps to get back on track, including staying safe and seeking support.
If you've relapsed, the first step is to ensure your safety:
Remember that relapse is a common experience in recovery. It doesn’t mean you’re a failure or that you’ll never be able to recover.
A relapse can be seen as a learning opportunity to more fully understand your triggers and ways of moving forward. Be kind to yourself and ensure you seek support.
Everyone can recover when they have the right support and coping mechanisms in place.
A relapse can mean that some challenges you’re facing need more attention and support. It’s therefore an opportunity to explore your cravings, triggers and mental health to see where more work might need to be done.
Relapsing indicates that it might be important for you to review and adjust your recovery plan with a professional.
They can help you to identify areas that need improvement, such as coping skills or building a healthy routine. They can also advise you whether inpatient or outpatient treatment might be necessary.
Depending on your addiction and the extent of your relapse, you may need a medically supervised detoxification. Detoxing alone from certain substances, such as alcohol, can be uncomfortable and even dangerous, so it’s important to seek support.
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Try not to isolate yourself but spend time with supportive friends and family. Re-engage with or access a support group such as a 12-step programme that’s designed to address all kinds of addictions.
If you’ve been in addiction treatment before, make sure you’re engaging in any of the aftercare support that’s available to you.
Relapse is common because it takes time for our brain to get used to functioning and coping without the substance or behaviour. When we’re faced with certain stressors or situations, we may revert to old ways of coping.
Everyone’s triggers and reasons for relapsing are different. But here are some common causes of relapse:
Spending time in certain places, or with people that remind you of your past addictive behaviours, can increase the risk of relapsing. For example, spending time with people who are drinking or being near a gambling venue.
Dealing with difficult or stressful situations and circumstances can trigger your coping mechanisms. If you’ve previously relied on a particular substance or behaviour to manage stress, facing difficulties could increase the risk of relapse. For example, issues such as financial problems, relationship breakdowns or social pressures can contribute to heightened vulnerability during these moments, leading to relapse.
Managing cravings can be more difficult when you’re struggling with your mental, emotional or physical health. If you’re feeling low, anxious, tired or unwell, it can weaken your self-control and make it harder to resist cravings.
Stress is a risk factor for relapse. For example, dealing with problems at work, relationship challenges or financial difficulties can make it harder to resist the urge to use the addictive behaviour to cope.
You might be seeking something to numb feeling alone or unloved, and turn to the addictive behaviour for comfort.
If you don’t want to give up or still have positive feelings towards the addiction, your brain might find ways to justify the behaviour. For example, you might have thoughts like, ‘just one last time’ or ‘other people are still doing it, why can’t I?’
If you have a lapse, you might feel ashamed and as though you’re a failure. This might stop you from seeking support, which can lead to a full relapse. For example, you might think ‘I’ve failed now, it doesn’t matter anymore so I’ll keep using’.
If you need someone to talk to, there are various helplines you can contact. In an emergency or crisis, please dial 999 or attend your local A&E department.
At Priory, our nationwide network of addiction treatment centres can help you get back on track after a relapse. Aftercare is a key part of our treatment approach, providing you with ongoing support for 12 months following your initial rehab.
During this time, you focus on relapse prevention strategies and are offered expert guidance to help you maintain your recovery. If a relapse occurs, we’re here to advise you on whether returning to treatment, through detox and rehab or outpatient therapy, is necessary.
Our expert teams will guide you in overcoming addiction, support your journey of self-reflection and work with you to create a relapse prevention plan.