People often relapse after leaving an addiction treatment centre because they haven't adequately dealt with the underlying causes of their addiction. This is a very common phenomenon, and relapse rates for drug use are similar to those for other chronic medical illnesses. [1] It's one of the main reasons why addiction treatment is so difficult. But why do drug addicts relapse? Is this what they really want?
In this article, we are going to discuss some of the most common reasons for addiction relapse after treatment, the warning signs, what to do after a relapse, and more. We will also provide some tips on how you can avoid relapse after treatment. So without any further ado let's get started.
Common Reasons for Addiction Relapse
1. Not Dealing With The Underlying Causes Of Addiction
As we mentioned above, one of the main reasons why people relapse after addiction treatment is because they haven't adequately dealt with the underlying causes of their addiction. If you don't deal with the root causes of your addiction, it is very likely that you will relapse after treatment.
2. Not Having A Solid Support System
Another common reason for addiction relapse is not having a solid support system in place. Many people who are in recovery rely on their family and friends for support, but sometimes this isn't enough. It's important to have a solid support system in place, whether it's through a 12-step programme, therapy, or another form of treatment. Many people find support groups such as Narcotics Anonymous helpful alongside their treatment. [2]
3. Not Having A Plan For Relapse Prevention
People often relapse because they don't have a plan in place for relapse prevention. It's important to have a solid plan for how you're going to stay sober after treatment, including what you'll do if you start to feel the urge to use again. This plan should be something that you discuss with your therapist or counselor so that you're both on the same page.
4. Trying To Quit "Cold Turkey"
Many people try to quit their addiction to "cold turkey," but this is usually not the best approach. If you're trying to quit without any help or support, it's more likely that you will relapse. It's important to get help from a professional if you're trying to quit an addiction.
5. Not Taking Medications As Prescribed
If you're taking medication for your addiction, it's important to take it as prescribed. If you're not taking your medication as prescribed, you're more likely to relapse. This is because certain medications, such as those used to treat opioid use disorder, can help to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it easier to stay sober. [3]
Warning Signs Of Relapse
1. Changes In Mood Or Attitude
One of the first things to look out for is changes in your mood or attitude. If you're starting to feel more irritable, anxious, or depressed, these could be warning signs that you're at risk of relapse. It's important to talk to your therapist or counselor about these changes so that they can help you get back on track.
2. Changes In Sleeping habits
Another warning sign of addiction relapse is a change in your sleeping habits. If you're suddenly sleeping more or less than usual, this could be a sign that you're struggling with sobriety. It's important to get back on track with your sleep schedule so that you can avoid relapse.
3. Isolating From Family And Friends
If you start to isolate yourself from your family and friends, this is another warning sign that you're at risk of relapse. Isolating oneself, along with poor eating and sleeping habits, is recognised as a sign of the early, emotional stage of relapse. [4] It's important to stay connected to your support system so that you can avoid relapse.
4. Changes In Eating habits
Changes in your eating habits are another warning sign of addiction relapse. If you're eating more or less than usual, this could be a sign that you're struggling with sobriety. It's important to eat a healthy diet and to avoid skipping meals so that you can stay on track.
5. Changes In Work Or School Performance
If you start to notice a decline in your work or school performance, this is another warning sign that you're at risk of relapse. It's important to talk to your boss or teacher about these changes so that they can help you get back on track.
If you find that you're experiencing any of the above warning signs, it's important to reach out for help right away. Addiction relapse is a very serious problem, and it's important to get help as soon as possible if you're struggling.
Addiction Relapse Prevention
1. Get Help As Soon As Possible
If you start to experience any of the warning signs of addiction relapse, it's important to get help as soon as possible. This could be through a 12-step program, therapy, or another form of treatment. The sooner you get help, the better your chances will be of avoiding relapse.
2. Be Honest With Yourself
It's also important, to be honest with yourself about your addiction. This means being honest about your triggers, your urges, and your thoughts. If you're not honest with yourself, it will be very difficult to avoid relapse.
3. Seek Professional Help
If you're struggling with addiction, it's important to seek professional help. Professional help can give you the tools you need to avoid relapse and stay sober. For opioid dependence, for example, the WHO recommends combining medication with psychosocial treatment and support. [5]
How Can We Help
Jagruti Rehabilitation Centre has been helping people with their addiction problems for years. We offer a variety of programmes and services that can help you or your loved one recover from addiction. As a trusted rehabilitation centre in Mumbai, we can help you get on the path to recovery wherever you are in the city.
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, please reach out to us. We can help you get the treatment you need to recover and live a sober life.
