Relapse and

Returning to Sobriety

Relapse comes when a chemically dependent person returns to drinking or drugs after a period of sobriety. Many people suffer one or more relapses, which interrupt their recovery. Some never recover, but others learn from the experience and make more effective efforts to stay sober. Sobriety seems to depend on having new attitudes and responses to life. If these are neglected, the old attitudes often creep back and lead to a relapse. Fortunately, relapses can be prevented, if the damper is recognized early enough. Even if a relapse does occur, people can return to sobriety.

Recognizing Danger

Relapses tend to occur in circumstances involving old habits and attitudes, high stress or neglect of recovery programs. Certain situations are especially dangerous, particularly holidays, special occasions, unexpected successes, and after becoming sober. During all these situations—or whenever you feel you need help—make sure to get the support you need to see you through.

People, places or events may also contribute to a relapse. Take a moment to identify people who don't support your sobriety and might "help" you backslide, and places and events that make you think of drinking or drug-taking. Then avoid them. Here are some other signs that can also signal danger of a relapse:

  • depression or loneliness
  • anxiety or nervousness
  • anger
  • impatience or frustration
  • drug or alcohol use
  • neglecting recovery program
  • neglecting prayer or spiritual activity
  • believing relapse can't happen to you

Prevention and Coping

Preventing a relapse means always looking for danger signals, avoiding dangerous circumstances and practicing habits that strengthen sobriety. Your best bet is to be a regular participant in recovery programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous. You may also have access to aftercare programs through a dependency treatment center. Your school counselor can refer you to these and other possibilities.

You can also agree to check yourself weekly for relapse danger signals with the help of a trusted friend and referring to the list of signs. If you believe you're in danger, ask for extra help from your recovery program. Remember to make sobriety your first priority in life.

What if you've already had a relapse? Still, the best course is to participate regularly in a recovery program. You may be embarrassed or even ashamed to admit that you had a relapse. But remember, others have been there before you and returned to sobriety. Relapse is not the end of the world. It's just another one of the challenges of recovering from chemical dependency.

Remember HALT:

Never get too Hungry, too Angry, too Lonely or too Tired.

These stressors leave you vulnerable to relapse.