When you have a loved one in a recovery program, one of the most important things you can do is support them and help them avoid relapse as they go through the recovery process. Statistics from the National Institute of Drug Abuse show that between 40 and 60 percent of people battling addiction will relapse. 1 To prevent your loved one from joining that statistic, become familiar with the relapse signs so that you can take action.
As we explore why people relapse during recovery, we’re going to look at six relapse signs to look for if you’re concerned about a loved one.
Why do People Relapse During Recovery?
Before we can begin to learn the relapse signs, we must understand why people relapse during recovery. Events or situations can act as triggers that will tempt and lead someone to use drugs or alcohol. Often, these triggers are filled with stress and anxiety. They can include:
- Being around people using drugs or alcohol
- A stressful working environment
- Trouble at home
- Feeling depressed, frustrated, or mad
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These situations can lead to emotional instability and cause some people even to plan their relapse. This is referred to as a mental relapse. When they return to their drug or alcohol use, a physical relapse occurs, and professional help is needed.
6 Relapse Signs to Look for in a Loved One
A loved one may have relapsed or is planning to relapse when you begin to notice one of these six relapse signs:
1. Secretive Behavior
If you notice your loved one being secretive and then acting defensive when you begin to ask questions, relapse may be near or may have already occurred.
2. Asking to Borrow Money or Stealing
When a loved one uncharacteristically begins to ask to borrow money, they may be planning to use that money to support their drug use. Stolen money can also be a red flag that someone in recovery has relapsed.
3. Impulsive Behavior
Any impulsive behavior that is out of character should be looked at. Drug and alcohol abuse can lead people to act this way and not even realize it. The impact of the drugs or alcohol on their system can make them do or say things they usually wouldn’t.
4. Reuniting with Old Friends
Part of the recovery process is discovering new people and new interests that don’t revolve around drugs or alcohol. If you notice a loved one start to spend time with old friends connected to their addiction, it could indicate that they’ve returned to old habits. One of the best ways to remain sober is to avoid people connected to a person’s addictive behavior.
5. Missing Therapy Sessions
When people begin to skip therapy sessions and are no longer getting the consistent help they need, they may be spending their time doing destructive activities. Therapy sessions and group meetings aim to give people the continued support they need as they go through recovery. When someone misses sessions without a valid reason, you’ll want to check in with your loved one to see what may be happening.
6. Changes in Physical Appearance
Being addicted to drugs or alcohol can negatively impact your physical appearance. When someone is using either substance, they may not be as concerned about their appearance or health, and it begins to show. If you notice pale skin or eyes that appear sunken in or unexplainable skin marks, it’s time to investigate whether a relapse has occurred.
Getting Help at Desert Cove Recovery
If you notice a loved one has relapsed, it’s essential to be supportive and communicate with them. It is important to get them the needed help that can get them back on the path to sobriety. The team at Desert Cove Recovery is ready to help your loved ones overcome their relapse and get the treatment they need. We offer a variety of therapy sessions as well as holistic care. We customize each plan to fit the needs of each patient to gain the best benefits. Reach out to our team today for help.
Sources:
https://nida.nih.gov/publications/principles-drug-addiction-treatment-research-based-guide-third-edition/frequently-asked-questions/how-effective-drug-addiction-treatment
