In the journey of recovery from substance abuse, it’s crucial to understand that addiction is a chronic disease, much like other long-term health conditions. Just as you manage conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes throughout your life, addiction requires ongoing attention and care. The key to sustained sobriety lies in staying vigilant and consistent with your care plan.
Upon completing a drug or alcohol rehab program, it’s not the end of your recovery journey; it’s just the beginning. Now is the time to put into practice all the lessons you’ve learned during rehab – strategies to combat negative thoughts and behaviors, ways to cope with deep emotions, and techniques to handle the daily stresses of life without resorting to substances.
Relapse, or falling back into addictive behaviors, is an ever-present threat. Statistics indicate that 40% to 60% of individuals recovering from substance abuse experience relapses, similar to the recurrence rates of other chronic illnesses. However, while relapse is a common part of recovery, the goal is to avoid it.
The encouraging news is that new medications and holistic treatment approaches, including those offered by Christian-based rehabilitation centers, contribute to lower relapse rates and reinforce recovery when relapse occurs.
Relapse doesn’t occur suddenly; it typically unfolds in three distinct stages: emotional, mental, and physical. Both individuals in recovery and their support systems need to be aware of the signs at each level.
1. Emotional
This is often the earliest stage of relapse, where you might not even realize you’re at risk. Signs include significant mood swings, heightened irritability, erratic sleep patterns, poor nutrition, and neglecting self-care. Isolation from support networks, missing meetings, and avoiding sober activities can also be warning signs. It’s essential to evaluate your work, family, and social situations for potential stressors and work on improving your emotional state.
2. Mental
If emotional distress goes unaddressed, it can progress to a mental relapse. During this stage, the risk of physical relapse – actually using drugs or alcohol – significantly increases. You may experience intense cravings and start to rationalize using substances, convincing yourself that “”just one drink or hit”” won’t hurt. Simultaneously, another part of you struggles to maintain sobriety, leading to self-doubt, feelings of defeat, and isolation.
3. Physical
This is the final stage, where individuals actively return to using substances. Recognizable signs include reconnecting with old friends associated with substance use, romanticizing drug or alcohol use, lying, and distancing oneself from friends who are still committed to their recovery.
Regardless of the stage of relapse or if you’ve already relapsed, it’s essential to remember that recovery is an ongoing process. Practicing self-awareness and seeking help immediately can guide you back onto your recovery path.
In recovery, mistakes are commonplace, but they can lead to valuable lessons about oneself and personal growth. Remember that failure only occurs when you stop trying. Fortunately, you’re not alone in this journey. Numerous resources are available, including support from family and friends, therapy, peer support, support groups, religious communities, crisis hotlines, and addiction recovery professionals.
A helpful starting point is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) website, operated by the federal government’s Department of Health and Human Services.
source: https://renaissanceranch.net/signs-you-could-be-close-to-a-physical-relapse/
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