Addiction relapse is a serious issue that can range from mild to life-threatening. Many people struggle to stay sober even after completing residential or outpatient treatment programs. Understanding the most common causes of relapse can help you identify potential triggers and recognize how to prevent them. Let’s explore five of the most common causes of addiction relapse and how to avoid them.
Would you like to learn more about relapse prevention therapy? Call us today at 866.957.7885.
Why Is It Challenging When You Begin Recovery?
Recovering from an addiction is a journey, not something that happens overnight. In many cases, addicts have spent months—even years—living with their addiction before they are able to confront it and seek help. During this time, addicts build up physical and psychological dependencies on drugs, alcohol, or other substances that make it difficult to break away from their addictions without help.
5 Most Common Causes of Addiction Relapse
1. Stress
Stressful situations such as financial problems, relationship issues, work stress, or health concerns can cause an addict to reach for old coping mechanisms like drugs or alcohol in order to cope with the situation.
2. Social Situations
Friends and family members who still drink or use drugs can often be a trigger for relapse for those trying to stay sober. Additionally, attending events where alcohol is served can be a challenge when trying to remain sober and avoiding temptation can be difficult.
3. Negative Emotions
Feelings such as depression, anxiety, loneliness, anger, or frustration can lead an addict back into their old habits if they do not have ways of managing these emotions in healthy ways.
4. Cravings
Cravings are one of the most common triggers for relapse because they come on suddenly and unexpectedly. It’s important to have strategies in place for dealing with cravings so that you’re prepared when they arise (such as talking through them with a therapist).
5. Boredom
The lack of things to do can cause someone in early recovery to become bored and easily tempted by the idea of using drugs or alcohol again in order to pass time or feel more entertained than usual.
5 Ways To Prevent Relapse
1. Keep Yourself Busy
Engaging in activities such as exercise or hobbies will keep your mind off drugs or alcohol and give you something else productive/fun/relaxing/etc., to focus on instead.
2. Avoid Triggers
Stay away from locations where you used drugs/alcohol previously as well as people who still use them socially (or get rid of them entirely).
3. Have A Support System
Having friends who understand your struggles with addiction will provide a source of understanding friendship plus emotional support whenever necessary; this could also include going back into therapy if needed for extra support during difficult times
4. Practice Self-Care
Taking care of yourself physically by getting enough rest and eating healthy foods will help you stay strong emotionally and mentally which will reduce your risk for relapse significantly
5. Seek Professional Help
If needed talk with a mental health professional (therapist/psychiatrist/counselor, etc.) who has experience treating patients struggling with addictions and getting help sooner rather than later may save you from relapsing down the road
What Should You Do If You Relapse?
If you’re struggling with substance abuse and find yourself relapsing despite all your best efforts then don’t hesitate any further—seek professional help right away.
San Antonio Recovery Center offers comprehensive treatment plans tailored specifically for individuals suffering from addiction including detoxification services and long-term recovery programs designed around each individual’s needs. With our evidence-based approach, we work together with clients every step of the way toward sobriety and lasting change.
Get Help Today From San Antonio Recovery Center
The causes of addiction relapse are numerous. Certainly, no one wants their recovery journey derailed by an unexpected relapse. By understanding why relapses occur and taking proactive measures such as avoiding triggers and practicing self-care, you can better protect yourself against slipping back into old habits.
However, if you find yourself experiencing signs of addiction relapse then don’t hesitate any longer. Instead, seek professional help immediately at San Antonio Recovery Center by calling 866.957.7885. With our evidence-based approach, we’ll work together every step of the way toward lasting change.
