Relapse Warning Signs

Recovering from a dependence on alcohol or another drug is a process that can take time. A relapse (or multiple relapses) is one part of recovering from alcohol and other drug dependence and can often be a feature of the recovery.

A relapse happens when a person stops maintaining their goal of reducing or avoiding use of alcohol or other drugs and returns to their previous levels of use.

Experiencing a relapse is not a sign of ‘weakness’, ‘failure’ or inability to recover. Rather they are signs that old ways of coping need to be replaced with new ones.

The most important thing to remember is that relapses can be overcome.

The path to recovery is not a straight line. Change takes time and when moving towards recovery people may face obstacles that set them back temporarily (a lapse) or for longer periods of time (a relapse). If you do experience a lapse or a relapse it is important to remember that you can overcome these, and you can achieve your goals.

Possible warning signs for relapse are:

Withdrawal socially and emotionally

· Emotionally detaching

· Social isolation from friends/family/community

· Depression and loneliness

Increased time spend alone or time unaccounted for

Being negative or hostile most of the time

Not having effective ways to deal with emotions such as hobbies

Keeping secrets or being avoidant

Excessive computer/phone use

Spending time with “dangerous people”

Re-engaging with “old behaviours”

If you do experience a lapse or a relapse this is an opportunity to explore what happened and what could be done in future to prevent it from happening again. After a lapse or a relapse you may realise that there are triggers and warning behaviour that could be better managed with other coping skills or support, to help you stay on track and maintain positive changes.

Developing a healthy lifestyle, understanding and managing cravings, learning coping strategies like relaxation techniques, and asking for help when things are difficult can make a difference and help you to stay focused on your goals. There are lots of support options to help you with this.

Also remember that you can always access professional support if you need help on your road to recovery, so you don’t have to go it alone.