Watching a family member or loved one struggle with drug or alcohol addiction can be challenging. Making matters more difficult is the fact that relapse is often a part of the recovery journey. How you respond can make a significant difference in your loved one’s ability to get back on track. Understanding why relapse happens, knowing how to offer support, and encouraging professional treatment can all help your loved one regain stability. Here’s what you need to know to provide the right support during a difficult time.
Understanding Relapse: Why It Happens
Relapse is not uncommon in the addiction recovery process, and it does not mean that treatment has failed. Recovering from drug and alcohol addiction is a complex process influenced by various factors, including emotional, psychological, and environmental triggers.
The Risk of Relapse in the Recovery Journey
It is important to remember that addiction is a chronic condition, meaning it is possible for relapse to occur, even after long periods of sobriety. Studies show that relapse rates range between 40% and 60%. Recognizing that relapse is part of the recovery process can help reduce feelings of shame and self-blame for the person in recovery and therefore help reduce the risk of relapse again in the future.
Common Triggers When a Relapse Occurs
Several factors can contribute to a relapse, including:
- Stress from work, relationships, or financial struggles
- Exposure to people, places, or situations linked to past substance use
- Emotional distress, such as anxiety, depression, or loneliness
- Overconfidence in recovery, leading to risky situations
- Lack of a strong support system
Mental Health and Other Underlying Health Conditions
The comorbidity rate of addiction is around 35%, which means that many individuals struggling with addiction also have co-occurring mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD. Without proper addiction treatment, these conditions can contribute to relapse. Encouraging professional support for both addiction and mental health concerns can improve long-term recovery outcomes.
The First Steps to Take After a Relapse
When relapse occurs, it’s crucial to respond with understanding and support rather than frustration or disappointment. Here’s how you can help in the immediate aftermath of a relapse.
Remember Relapse Doesn’t Equal Failure
Relapse can feel like a setback, but relapse doesn’t erase the progress your loved one has made. Rather than viewing the relapse as a failure, consider it an opportunity to reassess their recovery plan and identify areas that need more support and treatment. Recovery is not linear, and therefore each journey into long-term recovery varies based on the person involved.
Approach the Situation with Compassion
It’s natural to feel worried when someone you care about relapses, but responding with anger or blame can push them away and add to their sense of loneliness. Instead of blaming your loved one, try to approach the situation with empathy. Let them know you’re there to support them without judgment, and encourage open communication about what led to the relapse.
Offer Immediate Support Without Judgment
After a relapse, your loved one may experience feelings of guilt, shame, or hopelessness. Reassure them that they are not alone and that help is available. Offer to assist in finding resources, whether it’s a therapist, a support group, or a treatment program.
Helping Them Get Back on the Road to Recovery
After addressing the immediate situation, the next step is helping your loved one re-establish their commitment to recovery.
Encouraging Participation in Addiction Treatment Programs
Depending on the severity of the relapse, your loved one may benefit from returning to a formal treatment program. This could include any of the following or a mixture of multiple:
- Inpatient or outpatient rehab programs
- Therapy with an addiction counselor
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for substance use disorders
- In-Home Addiction Treatment (IHAT)
- Holistic approaches such as mindfulness, meditation, or exercise
Creating or Updating a Relapse Prevention Plan
A relapse prevention plan helps identify triggers and coping strategies to reduce the risk of future relapses. Work with your loved one and their support system to update their relapse prevention plan based on what triggers led to the relapse.
How Support Groups Can Make a Difference
Support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), and SMART Recovery provide a community of people who understand the challenges of addiction. Encouraging your loved one to attend meetings can help them feel less alone and more motivated to stay on track.
Building a Strong Support System
A strong support system plays a critical role in long-term recovery from drugs and alcohol. You can help create an environment that fosters healing and growth for your loved one.
The Role of Family Members in Recovery
Family involvement can be a powerful factor in addiction recovery. Attending family therapy sessions, learning about addiction, attending your own support group meeting such as AlAnon, and offering encouragement can make a significant difference.
Setting Boundaries While Offering Help
Supporting a loved one in recovery doesn’t mean enabling their addiction. Setting healthy boundaries—such as refusing to provide financial assistance for substances and encouraging independence in all areas of life—ensures that your support encourages recovery rather than dependency.
Fostering a Safe and Supportive Environment
Creating a stable, substance-free environment at home can help reduce the temptation to relapse. Encourage healthy habits, open communication, and a judgment-free space where your loved one feels supported.
Reducing the Risk of Future Relapses
While relapse is always a possibility, proactive steps can help minimize the risk and strengthen long-term sobriety.
Promoting Long-Term Healthy Habits
Encouraging healthy routines—such as staying active in sober communities, regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep—can improve mental and physical well-being, making it easier for your loved one to maintain sobriety.
Managing Co-Occurring Mental Health Conditions
Since mental health plays a significant role in addiction, it’s essential that your loved one receives proper care for any co-occurring disorders. Therapy, medication, and self-care practices can all help manage symptoms and reduce relapse risk. You can come up with a plan on how to support your loved one alongside their healthcare provider and sobriety support team.
Staying Involved in the Recovery Process
Recovery doesn’t end after rehab or therapy sessions. Staying engaged in your loved one’s journey—whether through attending meetings with them, checking in regularly, or simply being there when they need support—can make a meaningful impact.
Seeking Professional Help for Lasting Recovery
If your loved one is struggling to maintain sobriety, professional treatment can provide the structure and support they need.
The Importance of Ongoing Support and Treatment
Addiction recovery is a lifelong process, and ongoing treatment—such as therapy, counseling, or support groups—can help your loved one stay committed to sobriety.
Finding Personalized Treatment Programs for Their Needs
Every person’s recovery journey is unique. If your loved one is struggling with traditional methods, explore different treatment options, such as holistic therapies, wilderness rehab, faith-based programs, or alternative support groups that align with their values and needs.
How You Can Help Someone Who Has Relapsed:
Supporting a loved one after a relapse can be emotionally challenging. But your role in their recovery is invaluable. By responding with compassion, encouraging professional help, and fostering a supportive environment, you can help them regain their footing and move forward in their sobriety journey. If you or your loved one need guidance, don’t hesitate to seek professional addiction support to ensure a path toward lasting recovery.
Experts at Aware Recovery Care can also help you develop a personalized plan that fits their specific needs and circumstances. Aware Recovery Care has pioneered an innovative In-Home Addiction Treatment (IHAT) that offers you care and support from the safety and security of your home with a 78% recovery success rate. If you or a loved one has relapsed and is in need of support, contact Aware Recovery Care, today.
