It's no secret that addiction relapse rates are high. Studies show that up to 85% of people relapse within the first year of treatment, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. While this statistic may lead some to believe that relapse is an inevitable part of recovery, it's important to remember that many people live in long-term recovery without a single relapse. To help those in recovery stay on track, it's important to understand the common triggers that can lead to relapse. At its core, addiction is a chronic illness.
This means that there is always the possibility of relapse, even after many decades. To reduce the risk of relapse, it's important to continue to monitor the disease on a daily basis and be aware of potential triggers. It's also essential to understand that relapse is not a sign of weakness or failure. Instead, it should be seen as an opportunity to re-evaluate your recovery strategy and make any necessary changes. To help you stay on track with your recovery, here are 10 common triggers that can lead to addiction relapse:
1.Stress
Stress is one of the most common triggers for addiction relapse.When you're feeling overwhelmed or anxious, it can be tempting to turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to cope. To reduce the risk of relapse, it's important to find healthy ways to manage stress such as exercise, meditation, or talking to a friend.
2.Negative Emotions
Negative emotions such as anger, sadness, or loneliness can also be triggers for addiction relapse. When you're feeling down, it can be tempting to turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to escape your feelings. To reduce the risk of relapse, it's important to find healthy ways to cope with your emotions such as talking to a therapist or writing in a journal.3.Social Pressure
Social pressure is another common trigger for addiction relapse.When you're around people who are using drugs or alcohol, it can be difficult to resist the temptation. To reduce the risk of relapse, it's important to avoid situations where you know there will be drugs or alcohol present.
4.Unresolved Trauma
Unresolved trauma can also be a trigger for addiction relapse. If you haven't addressed past traumas such as abuse or neglect, it can be difficult to stay sober in the long-term. To reduce the risk of relapse, it's important to seek professional help and work through any unresolved issues.5.Boredom
Boredom is another common trigger for addiction relapse.When you're feeling bored or restless, it can be tempting to turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to pass the time. To reduce the risk of relapse, it's important to find healthy activities that will keep you busy such as reading, exercising, or volunteering.
6.Reaching Milestones
Reaching milestones such as six months or a year in recovery can also be a trigger for addiction relapse. When you reach these milestones, it can be tempting to think that you have your addiction under control and no longer need support. To reduce the risk of relapse, it's important to continue with your recovery plan and stay connected with your support network.7.Isolation
Isolation is another common trigger for addiction relapse.When you're feeling lonely or disconnected from others, it can be tempting to turn back to drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with your feelings. To reduce the risk of relapse, it's important to stay connected with friends and family and reach out for help when needed.
8.Poor Self-Care
Poor self-care is another common trigger for addiction relapse. When you're not taking care of yourself physically or emotionally, it can be difficult to stay sober in the long-term. To reduce the risk of relapse, it's important to practice good self-care such as eating healthy meals, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly.9.Lack of Support
Lack of support is another common trigger for addiction relapse.When you don't have a strong support system in place, it can be difficult to stay sober in the long-term. To reduce the risk of relapse, it's important to build a strong support network and reach out for help when needed.
