Relapse: A Recovering Alcoholic's Common Challenge

Relapse is a common occurrence during recovery from alcohol use disorder, with up to 90% of recovering alcoholics relapsing at some point. It is often considered a normal part of the recovery process, and a chance to learn and develop new coping strategies. A lapse, which is a brief and temporary return to drinking, is different from a relapse, which is a full-blown return to drinking and/or drug use. While relapse can be dangerous, it is not a sign of failure, but rather an indication that treatment plans and coping strategies may need to be adjusted.

Relapse is common, but not a failure

Relapse is a common occurrence in the recovery journey of an alcoholic. It is characterised by a return to drinking after a period of sobriety, and it can happen for various reasons, including unresolved emotions, stress, fear, exposure to triggers, and peer pressure. It is important to note that a lapse, such as having a single drink at a party and then returning to sobriety, is different from a full-blown relapse.

Relapse is a normal part of the recovery process and should not be seen as a failure. It is an opportunity to reinforce and modify one's treatment plan and prevent future relapses. It is crucial to understand that recovery from addiction is a personal journey, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Relapse prevention requires building skills to recognise and manage high-risk situations, developing positive coping strategies, and seeking support from professionals, support groups, family, and friends.

The first stage of relapse is often emotional, where cravings return and progress during previous periods of sobriety is threatened. This is followed by the mental phase, where the person starts thinking about drinking, and finally, the physical phase, where they act on those thoughts and start drinking again. Recognising the warning signs of each stage can help take action to avoid a relapse.

To prevent and manage relapses, individuals can benefit from cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), which helps address negative thinking patterns and teaches coping skills. Support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, provide a non-judgmental space to share experiences and learn from others. Additionally, creating a relapse prevention plan, identifying triggers, and seeking professional help from addiction specialists are crucial steps in the recovery process.

While relapse is common, it is essential to remember that it is not inevitable. With the right tools, support, and commitment to treatment, individuals can successfully maintain long-term sobriety and minimise the risk of relapsing.

Triggers and cravings can lead to relapse

Relapse is a common occurrence during recovery from alcohol use disorder, with approximately 40% to 70% of recovering alcoholics relapsing at some point. It is characterised by a return to previous levels of alcohol consumption after a period of sobriety.

Triggers and cravings can indeed lead to relapse, and it is important to be aware of and avoid these triggers to prevent relapse. Triggers can include people, places, and things that remind one of substance use, such as social situations involving alcohol or drug use. Positive emotions and celebrations are also risk factors for relapse, as individuals may seek to enhance positive feelings or celebrate with alcohol. Stress, fear, and peer pressure can also trigger a relapse, as individuals may turn to alcohol or drugs as a coping mechanism.

Cravings or thoughts about drinking are normal during recovery, but when these thoughts persist and lead to planning, it is important to seek help. Therapy, support groups, and cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) can be effective tools for managing cravings and preventing relapse. CBT helps individuals overcome negative thinking and teaches coping skills for trigger situations.

Additionally, it is crucial to recognise the stages of relapse, which can help identify warning signs and take action before physical relapse occurs. The emotional phase involves unresolved emotions and a return of cravings, followed by the mental phase of actively thinking about drinking, and finally, the physical phase of acting on those thoughts. Recognising these stages can empower individuals to take control and prevent relapse.

The emotional and mental phases of relapse

Relapse is a common occurrence during recovery from alcohol or drug addiction. It is a process that can take place over a period of weeks or months, and it is often considered one part of lifelong recovery. Relapse is not a sign of weakness or failure but a continuation of old coping patterns that need to be replaced with new ones.

Emotional Phase

During the emotional phase, a person is not actively thinking about using drugs or alcohol. However, their emotions and behaviours may be setting them up for a relapse in the future. They may feel discontent, restless, irritable, or isolated. They may also experience changes in diet or sleeping patterns, depression, mood swings, frustration, and loneliness. Denial is common during this stage, and due to the fear of judgment or failure, many do not share how they are feeling. If a person does not practice self-care during this stage, they will become exhausted, and as tension builds, they will be at a greater risk of moving into the mental relapse stage.

Mental Phase

The mental phase is when a person starts thinking about drinking or using drugs. It is important to recognise the warning signs of this stage and understand preventative strategies to stop the cycle of addiction. During this stage, the mind begins to rationalise unhandled emotions. A person may start planning their relapse, and it is at this point that they should seek help.

To prevent relapse, it is crucial to recognise the emotional phase and immediately change one's behaviour. Self-reflection and journaling can help gain awareness and prevent getting stuck in the first stage of relapse. It is also important to seek help and support during the emotional phase to stop the relapse from happening early on.

Treatment and support after a relapse

Relapse is a common occurrence in the recovery journey of a person with alcohol use disorder. It is important to remember that a relapse is not a sign of weakness or failure but a continuation of old coping patterns that need to be replaced with new ones. Here are some ways to provide treatment and support to a person who has relapsed:

• Understanding the Relapse: Recognise that a relapse is a process that starts weeks or months before the person starts drinking again. It involves an emotional phase, a mental phase, and finally, a physical phase. Understanding this can help you identify warning signs and take action to prevent a relapse.
• Support Networks: Encourage the person to reconnect with their support network, including friends, family, a family doctor, or a 24-hour alcohol and drug information/counselling service. It is important for them to feel supported and understood during this time.
• Medical Attention: If the person is experiencing unusual or significant symptoms, or if an overdose is suspected, seek medical assistance immediately.
• Therapy and Self-Help Groups: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can be an effective tool to prevent relapses by teaching individuals how to overcome negative thinking patterns associated with relapse. Additionally, encourage the person to attend self-help groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous or SMART Recovery, where they can talk about their relapse and learn from others' experiences.
• Avoid Triggers: Help the person identify and avoid triggers, including people, places, and things that remind them of substance use. This may involve minimising contact with certain triggers or finding alternative ways to cope until they feel more confident in their ability to resist.
• Reassure and Empathise: Relapse is a common part of the recovery process, and it's important to reassure the person that they are not alone and that it doesn't mean they have failed. Empathise with their situation, listen to them, and allow them to feel guilty if that helps them seek help.
• Refer to Helplines: SAMHSA's National Helpline (1-800-662-HELP) provides confidential, free, 24/7 support and information for individuals and families facing substance use disorders. They offer referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organisations.
• Long-Term Management Strategies: Work with the person to develop a formal recovery plan and a relapse prevention plan. This may include identifying personal triggers and strategies to manage them, as well as maintaining healthy lifestyle habits such as adequate sleep, nutrition, and self-care.
• Learn from the Relapse: Encourage the person to view the relapse as a learning experience rather than a failure. Help them identify what triggered the relapse and how they can avoid or cope with similar situations in the future.

Remember, recovery from alcohol dependence is a process that takes time and often involves setbacks. By providing treatment and support after a relapse, you can help the person get back on track and continue their journey towards long-term sobriety.

Preventing relapse with therapy and CBT

Recovering from alcohol dependence is a process that takes time, and relapse is a common occurrence during this process. A relapse happens when a person stops maintaining their goal of reducing or avoiding alcohol use and returns to their previous levels of consumption. It is characterised by three stages: the emotional phase, the mental phase, and the physical phase. Recognising the warning signs of each stage can help individuals take action to prevent a relapse.

Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) are effective tools for preventing relapse in recovering alcoholics. CBT teaches individuals to overcome negative thinking, which is often a key factor contributing to relapse. With CBT, individuals learn that recovery is based on practising coping skills rather than relying solely on willpower. During therapy sessions, individuals can discuss trigger situations with their therapist and develop strategies to deal with them. Additionally, keeping a journal can help individuals stick to their recovery plan and relapse prevention plan. This journal can include a list of personal triggers and corresponding management techniques, as well as contact information for their medical and support teams.

Therapy and CBT also play a crucial role in relapse prevention by addressing the emotional and mental phases of relapse. Therapy helps individuals regain control over their thoughts about drinking and provides a safe space to discuss their struggles without guilt or fear. It encourages the development of positive coping mechanisms and self-care practices to manage emotional triggers. Therapy can also aid in normalising emotional experiences, understanding the impact of thoughts on emotions, and learning to manage negative thoughts.

In addition to individual therapy, support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous provide a non-judgmental environment for individuals to talk about their relapse experiences and learn from others who have faced similar challenges. These groups offer daily meetings, ensuring that support is readily available when needed.

Overall, therapy and CBT are valuable tools in preventing relapse by addressing negative thinking patterns, providing coping strategies, and offering ongoing support to help individuals maintain their recovery goals.

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