I've come to the opinion that, while there are several factors for relapse, a few key ones drive addicts to relapse. Addicts relapse for various reasons, and sometimes the reason they believe they relapsed is completely different from the true cause. A relapsed individual may occasionally claim to have no recall of what happened. Other addicts may say they decided to use, but you have to ask why they did not choose otherwise. We'll learn more about why addicts relapse as we look for a solution to the last question.

You need to understand that addicts don't have the resolve to choose as we do; it is very difficult to quit habits like alcoholism or drug abuse when you get hooked. The bone of contention is convincing addicts that it's not their choice to start and stop their habits whenever they choose.

It's also a struggle for the families and friends2 of these addicts who believe that their loved ones will automatically stop using if they stopped hanging out with some people, got employed, started their weight loss plan, or joined a particular religion.

Why Do Addicts Relapse?

Stress:

Everyone is stressed at one point or the other. And the coping mechanisms differ from one person to the other. In this day and age, it’s usually by going for a drink or having a smoke.

These, however, are no longer alternatives if you check into a recovery center. As a result, you'll need to find alternative ways to manage your stress that won't involve using your preferred substance.

For patients staying in rehabilitation institutions, this is significantly simpler. However, those who have just completed treatment or outpatients may find it more challenging to refrain from using drugs and alcohol when under stress. As a result, you'll need to work harder to maintain your sobriety even while you're stressed.

Withdrawal: This is a major factor in why addicts find it difficult to stay clean. Some addicts continue using it to avoid withdrawal symptoms from their drug of preference. They deserve accolades if they succeed in staying a whole week without substance usage. Some withdrawal symptoms they may experience are nausea, insomnia, diarrhea, muscle pains, vomiting, and hot and cold sweats. If the case of drug abuse is really serious, it could even result in seizures or death.

Now you see why it can be tough for any addict that you know; hopefully, this information helps you be more empathetic. The degree of the symptoms depends on the type of drug that their abusing, how long they have been on it, how much they use in one sniff or smoke, and how often they get high.

However, doing so while consuming drugs hinders their ability to recuperate. Therefore, medical professionals strongly advise that when people quit their preferred poisons (hard drugs), they do so at a reputable facility where they may safely undergo medical detox.

A Rollercoaster of Negative Emotions:

Drugs may have a powerful (and frequently euphoric) impact on one's emotions, which is why individuals use them. People who use drugs frequently find it challenging to get treatment. And even if they succeed, they still experience emotional difficulties.

The healing process drains people's emotional reserves. Abstaining is difficult. It's difficult to connect with others. Reestablishing contact with friends and relatives is exhausting.

An individual suffers emotionally during the healing process. It's hard to withdraw. Relationship building is difficult. It's exhausting to reestablish contact with loved ones.

Among People Who Use Drugs or Alcohol:

If you are serious about rehabilitating, it is not advisable to still relate with people who share your drug addiction sickness. Even if you all decide to quit together, being together will weaken your resolve. The person could also have been a factor in your initial use of drugs, such as an abusive parent.

Therefore, where you frequently drink, or smoke might trigger a section of your brain that urges you to repeat those behaviors. Another trigger is being in the same environment as the drug you are abusing. It will only be a matter of time before you succumb to its temptation.

Practical strategies for controlling your feelings and ideas are essential when you find yourself in a provoking circumstance. For instance, a group of pals could ask you out for the evening. It would be sage to be prepared with a specific answer or an alternative beneficial activity, like working out.

Being Overconfident:

Although faith in the plan and your abilities is positive, going beyond may hurt your development and recovery. Some people are so pleased with their lives or choices post-addiction that they unconsciously give up on the daily struggle of not returning to those drugs. Some are willing to expose themselves to danger to demonstrate their ability to maintain sobriety.

But you must constantly remind yourself that even the tiniest slip-up or trigger might cause you to relapse. Never deviate from the treatment plan's suggestions, and always participate in activities connected to rehabilitation. You are putting your sobriety at risk when you think you've hacked the process and lose focus on the rituals that help you stay clean.

How Do You Get Back up After a Relapse?

Knowing the causes of relapse in addicts will help you deal with your propensity for it. You may always relapse, irrespective of how long you have been clean or how well you are adhering to the program. But just because you relapsed doesn't mean you are a failure. Recovery will be an everyday lifestyle for quite some time, and it will be full of proud and low moments.

These are some practices you can imbibe to help you on the road to recovery, especially when that unavoidable relapse surprises you. Remember that you are not alone on this journey; surround yourself with people who love and support you.

Try to attend self-meetings like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) to mingle with people who understand the gravity of what you are battling. People with comparable stories listen to one other there without passing judgment and offer assistance.

Make a preventative strategy. You may take precautions to make sure a relapse doesn't occur again after having one. Your primary triggers, strategies for avoiding or dealing with them, and a list of persons and support networks you may contact can all be included in the plan.

Relapsing, as we already stated, is not failing. So, rather than giving in to your bad feelings, learn from the event and use it as motivation to become better and stronger.