A relapse can occur so suddenly. One minute you’re a happy family with your loved one doing great in his recovery and the next–everything blows up in your face, just like before. It hurts, it can be disappointing, and you may even blame yourself for it. But you know what–before you get afraid, the best thing to do is to arm yourself with knowledge so you can help prevent a relapse from happening.
At Bridges Of Hope, we believe that the best ways to avoid relapse is to pinpoint and understand any red flags in a recovering addict’s lifestyle and behavior. It is also important to know situations and emotional triggers that may lead him to relapse. Of course, these factors vary from person to person but what we will discuss here are some emotional triggers, social scenarios, and the physical changes that happens when your loved one is about to relapse.
These situations may lead to relapse:
- loss or change of employment
- loss of a family member or a loved one
- financial crisis
- change in marital status
- health problems
- family problems or conflicts
- changes in family dynamics or pressure in family life
- social conflicts
- boredom
How do you recognize red flags when he is entering that zone when relapse could occur? Here are some signs to look out for:
- showing obsessive behavior
- avoiding responsibilities
- being dodgy or defensive about issues
- sudden changes in routine
- being secretive
- not attending support meetings
- exhibiting feelings of anxiety, worry, anger, sadness or confusion
- changes in sleep or eating habits
- socializing with old friends or other individuals associated with his drug use or drinking
For you, your family, and your loved one who is undergoing addiction recovery, relapse prevention may be a daily battle for the rest of your lives. But the takeaway here is this: as you go through each day with each small triumphs, life will soon get easier, and it will get better. As time goes by, the recovering addict’s cravings will be weaker and less compelling.
For help and support, call our Recovery Specialists today:
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