How To Handle a Relapse During Addiction Recovery

At Victory Recovery Partners, a network of seven addiction/recovery centers on Long Island, New York, we are experienced with helping our patients navigate through their recovery journeys. As we always express, the road to recovery is generally not always easy or simple. Rather, there can be obstacles and bumps along the way in the form of a relapse. A relapse occurs when a patient who has been battling addiction and substance use becomes sober, but then after a period of time passes, they go back to using again. While a relapse may be frustrating and upsetting to the patient, handling this properly can make all the difference in terms of one’s recovery.  

It must be stated that having a relapse is very common and should not be looked at as a failure. A risk of having a relapse is more common that one may think. According to the National Institute on Drug Use, about 40-60 percent of those trying to quit using drugs, and 50-90 percent of those trying to quit alcohol have a relapse during their first four years of recovery. During the beginning of one’s recovery, the patient may be triggered by factors such as drug-related cues in their surroundings. For example, if a patient visits a location where they used to use drugs, or if they see a hypodermic needle or bottle of alcohol, they may become triggered to start using again. Our behavioral health counselors work with their patients by helping them understand what their specific triggers are, and how to manage them. In other words, if a patient is able to identify their triggers and is aware of them, this can limit the likelihood of a relapse.  

In addition to helping our patients uncover what their triggers are, our counselors also help our patients understand the other reasons for a relapse. For example, if you are stressed, face peer pressure, have physical or emotional pain, and don’t have a strong support system, you may be more likely to relapse.  

By attending an outpatient addiction recovery program, such as Victory Recovery Partners, patients will learn ways to handle and manage the strong urges to use that accompany the recovery process. By practicing mindfulness and learning relaxation techniques, patients can obtain the skills needed to help them when they feel that urge to start using again.  

If you are experiencing a relapse, you should immediately seek professional help. While friends and family may be able to provide some level of support and temporary relief, it is key that you allow experienced professionals, such as those at Victory Recovery Partners, to work with you to help you overcome the relapse. In addition to individual counseling, it is generally recommended for patients to attend group therapy. By attending a group, you will learn more about how others are managing and navigating through their recovery journeys. Finally, self-care is also helpful in maintaining a positive outlook during recovery. For example, keeping good hygiene, and getting enough sleep can help you improve your mood and overall wellbeing, therefore reducing the likelihood of a relapse. 

Victory Recovery Partners, a network of seven addiction recovery centers on Long Island, New York, has helped thousands of patients overcome their substance use disorders and addictions. While the recovery process may not be easy, especially at first, it is certainly possible to live a healthy and positive drug-free life. While relapses can occur, they should not be viewed as a sign of failure. Learning the ways in which you can overcome that relapse and get back on track toward sobriety is key for having a successful recovery. At Victory Recovery Partners, our behavioral health counselors are experienced in helping their patients get past the relapse, allowing for the greatest-possible chances of recovery. For more information on Victory, please visit our website www.victoryrp.com