5 Warning Signs of Future Relapse You Don’t Want to Miss

Relapse is a normal part of recovery for many people. In fact, between 40-60% of people who seek treatment for alcoholism or addiction relapse within one year of getting sober. Even though relapse is most common among people in early sobriety, relapse can happen at any time. That being said, relapse doesn’t have to be a part of everyone’s story. Relapse can be prevented if people continue to treat their addiction as a disease and take care of their mental health. 

Whether you are in recovery or have a friend who is sober, it can be helpful to understand the warning signs of relapse. If you can spot the warning signs and intervene appropriately before someone picks up a drink or a drug, relapse can be prevented.

The Stages of Relapse

Relapse rarely occurs as a result of one situation or event. Rather, it usually happens as a process that can be broken down into three stages. The three stages of relapse are:

• Emotional relapse - an emotional relapse occurs before a person starts having thoughts about using drugs or drinking alcohol. During this stage, the person may begin feeling depressed, anxious, irritable, or angry on a regular basis. This is a sign that a person is neglecting their emotional health and needs and is on the road to relapse.
• Mental relapse - mental relapse usually comes after an emotional relapse. Once the emotions become too difficult, people in this stage will begin having thoughts of getting drunk or high. However, this stage is marked by an internal struggle where the cravings are popping up, but the person doesn’t want to relapse.
• Physical relapse - physical relapse is when a person actually uses drugs or alcohol. This is usually what people think of when they hear the word “relapse.”

If you can identify the signs and symptoms of emotional and mental relapse, you can ultimately prevent a physical relapse from happening.

5 Signs of Impending Relapse

There are many warning signs of drug and alcohol relapse. Here are 5 of the most common that are easy to spot.

1. Changes in Mood

It is completely normal to feel down from time to time, however, persistent negative moods and emotions can make staying sober difficult. If someone is sulking in their emotions and refusing to seek help or take action to feel better, a relapse may be on its way.

2. Isolating From Friends and Family

Isolation is said to be one of the top warning signs of an impending relapse. Making meaningful connections is vital for recovery and when a person begins to isolate, they may begin to feel distant and alienated. They may also lose the accountability they once had from their support group. When you combine struggles with mood and emotions with isolation, it is a perfect recipe for relapse.

3. Refusing to Go to Meetings

When most people get sober, they choose to participate in some type of recovery support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), or SMART Recovery. Groups such as these are considered so vital for long-term recovery that many people participate in them for the duration of their sobriety. If someone used to go to these meetings on a regular basis but has stopped going for no real reason, they may be susceptible to relapse.

4. Impulsive Behaviors

Impulsivity is a common characteristic of drug and alcohol addiction. Even before a person picks up a drink or a drug, they may begin displaying impulsivity or lack of judgment. Impulsive behaviors are a sign that the person is trying to escape a certain way that they feel. However, behaviors like unprotected sex, illegal activities, or behaviors that put someone in harm’s way are all warning signs that a relapse is on its way.

5. Considering Ways to Use Drugs and Alcohol

It is normal for recovering addicts to reflect on and discuss their past drug or alcohol use. However, if a person begins joking about using substances or thinking they are able to use substances safely and successfully, they are likely on their way to relapse. When thoughts of drug and alcohol use become incessant, a person is extremely close to relapse.

Intervening to Prevent Relapse

In most cases, once you identify the warning signs of relapse, it isn’t that hard to get back on track. Oftentimes, the hardest part is asking for help and admitting that you’re struggling to maintain your sobriety. However, it’s important to remember that emotional, mental, and even physical relapse are normal and they are nothing you should beat yourself up over. What matters is what you do to make yourself feel better and get back on track.

For some people, preventing relapse may look like going back to meetings and getting re-connected with support groups. For others, it could look like seeking professional counseling. In the end, it is important to do what is best for you and your sobriety.