What Should You Do After Experiencing a Relapse?

The recovery community continues to be at high risk for relapse due to COVID-19. Quarantine, social distancing, job losses, financial strains, etc. have challenged the recovery of many addicts and alcoholics. Many have relapsed during this unprecedented time and are in need of help now.

Sometimes we fall down even when we try our best to stand up. Unfortunately, experiencing a relapse is part of recovery for tens of thousands of individuals. My addiction counseling practice in part focuses on how to make such an experience not only a brief setback, but also an opportunity for growth in sobriety.

Learning the coping skills necessary to handle life on life’s terms isn’t always easy. As we’ve all just seen, highly stressful, sad or scary situations can emerge in the blink of an eye. Likewise, experiencing very joyful times can be stressful because we may not be used to them. These sudden and powerful feelings can sometimes overwhelm us and lead to a relapse. If you or a loved one has relapsed and you’re reading this, please know there’s still hope to regain your recovery.

Here are some specific steps I recommend to regain your sobriety after a relapse. Although this is not an exhaustive list, I believe these are some of the most important things to consider as you make your way back to recovery.

Embrace the Tears

Experiencing a relapse can be very upsetting and painful. In the aftermath of using again feelings of guilt, shame and even self-hate are common. While in the midst of these intense feelings, we often forget that recovery is still possible. Allow yourself to process these feelings out loud with someone you trust. This will keep you from staying overwhelmed and possibly halt active addiction. Take some time to put things in perspective. Contact your sponsor, your therapist or a good friend that’s in solid recovery. Contact your recovery support system to help bring the intense feelings into perspective and get you grounded once again.

Refine Your Relapse Prevention Process

Once you’ve been able to regain perspective, dive deeper into the thoughts, beliefs, triggers, high risk situations and people that contributed to your relapse. Understanding your vulnerabilities to relapse makes you less likely to relapse in the future. Relapse prevention plans may need to be modified as at this time to strengthen the process so another relapse becomes less likely. Consult with professionals skilled in relapse prevention and recovery to resolve all conflicts or traumas that contributed to the relapse. Remember long-term recovery requires rigorous honesty and asking for help.

Remember What Made You a Winner

Review what kept you clean and sober before the relapse. The things that keep your addictive cravings in check is what you need now. Was it AA or another recovery focused group? A sober support team? Your therapist? Your sponsor or significant other? Stick with the winners and do the things that make YOU a winner! Going back to the basics is always a safe bet. See my blog on “Bumper Sticker Recovery” for some great suggestions.

Seek Medically Supervised Detox

Once you decide to stop using again, remember that going “cold turkey” can be dangerous. Certain medications like benzodiazepines and alcohol are dangerous to detox from by simply just stopping. Use good judgment and consult with a medical professional who understands the process of detoxing from substances. Even if you are not totally convinced that you need a detox, consult with a physician anyway. Always better safe than sorry!