Three long months you've held on, believing you had finally overcome the grip of your addiction. It felt like you were making real progress, slowly learning to smile again, facing life without needing that destructive crutch. But then, out of nowhere, the cravings returned, clawing at you, pulling you back into the darkness you thought you had left behind.

Navigating the journey of substance abuse recovery is exhausting and full of ups and downs. But if you’re able to catch the early signs of relapse, then you may be able to stop yourself from spiraling completely.

In this blog post, you’ll explore the early signs of relapse, how to detect them, and the strategies you can use to fight back. It’s a fight you know you have to keep fighting if you want to stay on the path to recovery and create real, lasting change in your life.

Are you struggling with addiction cravings? Listen to this episode to learn how to combat them during substance abuse recovery.

Why Does Relapse Happen During Addiction Recovery?

Relapse is a common challenge in the journey of substance abuse recovery. It is often described as a return to substance use after a period of abstinence. The urge to use a drug again can take various forms, including physical, emotional, and mental.

Studies show that about 40-60% of individuals with substance use disorders experience relapse, and 85% of individuals will experience relapse within the first year of their addiction recovery. Recognizing the nature of relapse and its potential impact, you and your support system can better navigate the recovery process and work towards sustained success.

The Three Stages of Addiction Relapse

Instead of seeing the signs of relapse as a singular event, it’s better to view it as a process. Below are the three different stages of relapse someone may experience before giving in to their cravings.

Emotional Indicators

One of the first signs of potential relapse is emotional distress. During substance abuse recovery, you may experience a resurgence of anxiety, depression, or frustration.

Feelings of hopelessness or increased emotional instability can signal that your addiction recovery is at risk. Being attuned to these shifts in your emotional state is crucial, as they often precede more significant setbacks.

Behavioral Changes

Pay attention to any deviations from your usual routines, such as neglecting self-care, abandoning previously enjoyed activities, or engaging in unhealthy habits. These changes can be subtle but are important to recognize, as they often precede a full-blown relapse.

Mental Warning Signs

Mentally, you might start experiencing persistent negative thoughts, difficulty concentrating, or a preoccupation with past mistakes and failures. These cognitive shifts can undermine your progress and signal that additional support or adjustments to your recovery plan may be needed. Addressing these mental signs early can help you maintain focus and prevent relapse.

What to Do If You Suspect a Relapse?

The first step for you to take when you suspect a relapse is to acknowledge your feelings. Know that it is okay that you’re feeling the way you are during your substance abuse recovery.

Next, take these steps below once you notice you’re experiencing the signs of relapse.

Immediate Steps

If you suspect that you or someone you care about is on the verge of a relapse, it’s essential to act quickly. The first and most crucial step is to reach out for help. This could mean contacting a trusted friend, family member, or sponsor who understands the challenges of recovery. Reaching out for support can help break the isolation that often accompanies relapse.

Next, revisit your recovery plan. Reflect on what has been working and what might need adjustment. Your recovery plan is your road map, and it might need to be revised to better suit your current situation. This can involve incorporating new strategies, setting fresh goals, or reaffirming your commitment to the recovery process.

Lastly, re-engage with your support networks. Whether it’s attending more meetings, connecting with your therapist, or getting back into a routine of self-care practices. Reconnecting with these resources can provide the structure and encouragement needed to stay on track.

Seeking Professional Help

Therapists and counselors are trained to help you navigate the complex emotions and triggers that may be leading you toward relapse. They can provide a safe space to explore what’s going on and offer practical tools to manage the situation.

Support groups and other recovery communities also offer a sense of belonging and understanding. Sharing experiences with others who have been through similar challenges can reduce feelings of isolation and encourage you to stay committed to your recovery journey.

Long-Term Strategies

Once you’ve addressed the immediate concerns, it’s important to think about long-term strategies to prevent future relapses. This might involve adjusting your recovery plan to better address the specific issues that led to the relapse. Consider what triggered the relapse and what changes need to be made to your environment, routine, or mindset to avoid those triggers in the future.

It’s also essential to maintain ongoing self-assessment and flexibility in your recovery approach. Recovery is not a one-size-fits-all journey, and what worked at one stage might need to evolve as you progress. Stay open to learning, adapting, and seeking support as needed.

Join Real Recovery Talk Facebook Community for Endless Support on Addiction Recovery

Recognizing the early signs of relapse is crucial for maintaining your recovery journey. Our tips above are here to help you along the way, however you shouldn’t do this alone or even attempt to try to.

Our Facebook Community provides support, resources, and encouragement for those in their substance abuse recovery. Join our community to stay feeling empowered on your path to a new life.