Rehab, while often a necessary step toward treatment recovery, is meant to provide a springboard to grow. This means that the journey after rehabilitation rests heavily on the recovering addict or alcoholic.
We don’t often stop to think of recovery in these terms because we focus so heavily on the therapies and programs that prepare addicts for future success in sobriety. Yet, when we take a minute to examine the process as a personal, lifelong commitment, we can more easily see how hurdles, like a relapse, bend the journey differently for each individual.
So, even if you are not here as a recovering alcoholic, you can still learn what to do when an alcoholic relapses.
Slip vs. Relapse
What is the severity of the mistake? It’s essential to assess the circumstances in which the alcoholic has abandoned their goal. Most professionals in the recovery industry draw a line between a “slip” and a full-blown relapse. The significant difference is that a slip is generally done in the spur of the moment and is often followed by immediate feelings of guilt and shame.
A relapse, on the other hand, is a return to old behaviors. Relapse is more severe because it often involves a period in which the recovering alcoholic cannot transcend their mistake to see the bigger picture — their goal of sobriety. If gone unchecked, this phase can lead to heavier use, thus reigniting the original problem.
Alcoholic relapse: what to do
The relapse rate for recovering alcoholics hovers around 90%. It is astounding how many people are attempting to achieve lifelong sobriety.
We highlight this point to illustrate the reality of recovery more accurately. Instead of viewing relapse as a failure, we like to think of it as a learning experience.
It is an opportunity to step back, to re-evaluate decisions, and to re-align goals.
Not every mistake needs to be punished with shame and guilt. The reality is that relapse occurs at an incredibly high rate. Instead of thinking of lifelong sobriety as a sprint to the finish line, we must reimagine it as a marathon or, more accurately, a lifelong jog.
What causes an Alcoholic to relapse?
The best tool for continued success is introspective communication. Not sure what to do after an alcohol relapse? Ask the right questions! How did it happen?
Whether this is a self-examination or a conversation with a loved one, know that the answer lies in the motive. What is the reason for relapse? Is it stress? Is it cravings? Frequently, these tough questions lead to authentic answers, some of which may require professional attention.
For example, if relapse is the result of stress or anxiety, a psychologist might be helpful in helping pinpoint and eliminate the harmful origins of addictive behavior.
The Reality of Recovery Guilt Trips
A significant complication arises when relapse occurs — guilt. Shame is a complex emotion, leading many people to suffer in silence. But, this collision of stifled emotions can lead to a dangerous pattern of internalization.
Recovering addicts tend to suffer alone in their shame, suppressing the need to ask themselves tough questions about their decisions. What follows is an increased chance to relapse or outright avoid recovery.
Thus, we want to emphasize the importance of seeking help immediately after a relapse, even if it is just a tiny slip.
Setting aside shame or guilt and seeking professional attention is vital to decrease the risk of future mistakes.
Journey To Recovery Within United Recovery Project
The journey toward recovery will look different for each person. Even with the best therapies and professionals, success is still in the hands of the individual. That means we need to be honest about making mistakes, even when there is an alcohol relapse after years of sobriety.
Success is about learning, forgiveness when relapse occurs, and dedication. Making mistakes is just part of the journey. Ready to take the next step toward recovery? Check out our robust detoxification, partial-day, sober-living, and alumni programs!
Call United Recovery Project, a full-service inpatient drug treatment center in South Florida. For our top-tier services, we recommend you speak to one of our caring representatives at 888-960-5121. We recognize your discomfort and want to assist!
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