A relapse or setback doesn’t just happen, even though it may feel that way. It is a process just like addiction. The process can take a few hours, days, weeks or longer. The pressure builds slowly until you drink, use other drugs or gamble.
The pressure that leads to a relapse usually comes from challenges in your life. Life challenges don’t suddenly go away when you stop drinking, using other drugs or gambling. In fact, they can sometimes seem worse than they were before you stopped!
But these challenges are also opportunities. They can remind you of the reasons you have set new goals for yourself. They can also help you focus on doing more of what works for you.
Counselling is a valuable tool for you. It can help you turn your problems into opportunities. Once you know what to look for, you’ll be able to see your challenges and respond creatively to them before they build up.
Here are some of the challenges people in recovery often have to deal with. It is up to you to find the solutions that work best for you.
Challenge: feeling bored with no alcohol, other drugs or gambling in your life
Challenge: feeling angry and stressed out
Challenge: feeling isolated and lonely
Challenge: feeling like life has no purpose or meaning
Challenge: feeling depressed and exhausted
The upside of relapse
Although a relapse is serious, it is often a good teacher. If you have a setback, view it as part of your long-term recovery. Learn what you can from it and move on. Getting stuck in feelings of guilt won’t help you. Instead, let the relapse strengthen your resolve for recovery. What you learn will be a valuable experience.
