Relapse is one of a recovering addict’s worst fears. However, it’s a normal part of the recovery process that most former addicts experience at one point or another during their healing journey. If you’re experiencing one or more of the most common relapse triggers, our team is here to help. Our Florida addiction treatment center is available to help you manage your relapse triggers. To learn more about how you can go about preventing relapse, contact Atlantic Recovery Center today at 1-866-824-5193.
1. Stress
Stress is a significant factor when considering the desire to use substances, to begin with. Drugs and alcohol often serve as an escape for stressed-out individuals. As a result, even a minimal amount of added stress can increase a person’s drive towards substance abuse. Make an effort to avoid known sources of stress and have a plan for times when you encounter unavoidable stress.
2. Emotional Upset
Emotional upset like sadness and grief is along the same lines as stress when it comes to using drugs and alcohol. They see substances as a way to escape uncomfortable feelings. Make a list of resources you can turn to when you experience emotional upset, such as friends and family to talk to and books to read.
3. Illness
Both mental and physical illnesses can be common relapse triggers. Mental illness, in particular, has long been associated with substance abuse problems. Work with your clinicians to identify and treat mental illnesses. You should also have a list of friends or family members you can call if you start to feel unwell. Ideally, you will have at least one person who you can call any time of day or night in the event of an emergency.
4. Relationship Difficulties
Problems with relationships and sex are common relapse initiators. Individuals who experience dating letdowns, marriage arguments, reduced sex drive or impotency, and other related issues are at an increased risk of having a relapse. Discuss any issues with relationships or sex with your clinician or your support system.
5. Positive Life Events
Contrary to popular belief, positive life events like a graduation or job promotion can also be a trigger for addiction relapse. You should not only have a support system in place for negative life events and emergencies but also for good things that happen that can feel overwhelming.
6. Being In a Situation Where Substances Are Available
When a recovering addict is in situations where drugs and alcohol are available, it’s much harder to abstain. Former addicts should eliminate old contacts and social circles that enabled substance abuse. They may also want to avoid going out to places where drugs and alcohol are likely to be within easy reach.
7. Social Isolation
That said, former drug users must have healthy social interaction. Isolation and loneliness are both common relapse triggers. Take the opportunity to meet new friends through your group recovery programs and engage with them via phone, text, social media, or in person.
8. Becoming Too “HALT”
HALT is an acronym used in recovery circles to help former addicts avoid relapse. It stands for “hungry, angry, lonely, tired.” If you become overwhelmed by hunger, anger, loneliness, or fatigue, you are at a higher risk of relapse. Recovering addicts need to eat regularly, socialize healthily, get enough rest, and learn to manage frustration.
Get Help with Relapse Today
Are you or someone you love struggling with relapse? Get the help you need to support yourself or your loved one through the recovery process. Recovery never truly ends, and at Atlantic Recovery Center, we’re dedicated to providing patients and their families with tools and resources to live a healthy, substance-free lifestyle. Contact us today at 1-866-824-5193 to learn more.