Relapses are a common challenge in recovery, and understanding how to respond is crucial. While some individuals may be more prone to relapse, others might experience it due to unfortunate circumstances. Regardless of the reason for a relapse, it is essential to support your loved one in getting back on track to safeguard their well-being. Discover effective strategies for assisting someone who has relapsed by exploring the following tips.
How You Can Help: What to Do When Someone Relapses
Relapses are a common challenge in recovery, and understanding how to respond is crucial. While some individuals may be more prone to relapse, others might experience it due to unfortunate circumstances. Regardless of the reason for a relapse, it is essential to support your loved one in getting back on track to safeguard their well-being. Discover effective strategies for assisting someone who has relapsed by exploring the following tips.
#1 Don’t Give Up
Relapse can occur for anyone in recovery, regardless of their level of addiction or the substance involved. Studies show that approximately 40-60% of individuals will experience a relapse at some point during their recovery journey. This does not imply that they are broken or incapable of achieving sobriety. It often means that their current treatment approach may not have been the right fit for their unique needs. Instead of succumbing to negativity, which rarely leads to success, it’s important to remain hopeful and supportive. Overcoming addiction is an incredibly challenging process, and persistence is key.
#2 Don’t Make Excuses or Accept Theirs
Supporting a loved one through a relapse is crucial, but it’s important not to make excuses for their behavior or enable their actions. Addiction is a complex brain disease, yet individuals are still accountable for recognizing their triggers and taking responsibility for their actions. It is not your role to alleviate their guilt or anxiety about the relapse. Allow them to fully experience the consequences of their actions, as this can be an important part of their recovery process. Establishing clear boundaries and making it clear that there are repercussions for their actions is essential.
#3 Offer Encouragement
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, long-term recovery is achievable and can significantly improve the likelihood of maintaining sobriety. Data indicates that individuals who reach one year of sobriety have a relapse rate of less than 50%, and those who stay sober for five years have less than a 15% chance of relapsing. Extended periods of abstinence are strong indicators of sustained recovery, meaning that the longer one remains sober, the more manageable it becomes.
It’s important for someone who has relapsed to understand that they are not beyond repair. Demonstrate your support and remind them that long-term sobriety is attainable. Show that you care and believe in their ability to achieve lasting recovery.
#4 Channel Emotions Constructively
A relapse can be deeply frustrating for those closest to the individual struggling with addiction. From an outside perspective, addiction might seem like a senseless, self-inflicted issue. However, from the addict’s perspective, it is often a cry for help. While they may not want to rely on substances, they may view them as the only solution due to their personal circumstances. Although it’s natural to feel frustrated or angry, it’s important to express these emotions in a way that provides constructive feedback and encourages them to seek treatment.
Direct your negative feelings into positive, structured criticism rather than lashing out in anger. This approach will help avoid pushing the individual away and prevent them from feeling worse about themselves.
#5 Help Them Identify Triggers
Avoiding triggers can be challenging, especially when returning from rehab. Recovering individuals might encounter people, situations, or places that could lead to a relapse. You can assist by discussing with them what triggers their urge to use substances and finding ways to address these triggers. This might involve helping them relocate, encouraging new relationships and hobbies, and having open conversations about potential triggers and their underlying causes.
Collaborate with the individual to identify their specific triggers. Discuss what aspects of these situations drive their desire to use substances, and work together to create a supportive environment that promotes recovery.
#6 Find Support
Feeling frustrated when previous treatment options haven’t worked for your loved one is understandable. Many individuals undergo multiple treatment programs before achieving lasting sobriety. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s crucial to seek a treatment center that offers more than just a short-term stay. Look for a facility that provides personalized care rather than viewing patients as just another number. A center with a strong, active alumni program can offer ongoing support and care even after leaving the facility.
One unsuccessful treatment approach doesn’t mean that all options are ineffective. Engage in a discussion with the individual to understand their specific needs before pursuing a new treatment plan.
Relapse Prevention Tips
Next Steps
At Sunrise Recovery, we offer a range of drug addiction treatment methods designed to address the unique needs of each patient. If someone you care about has relapsed, we are here to assist. Whether you require help staging an intervention or enrolling in a comprehensive residential program, our team of professionals is ready to consult with you and explore the best treatment options available.
