by Leigh-Ann Larson
There is a saying in recovery that goes, “Relapse is a part of recovery.” While this is true, and no one should feel ashamed of a slip, it also needs to be stated that, “Relapse is NOT a requirement!” It is important to maintain vigilance in looking out for signs of relapse, and making sure you keep these behaviors and emotions in check.
There are signs of emotional relapse that we can look out for. These are also connected to symptoms of post-acute withdrawal:
- Anxiety
- Intolerance
- Anger
- Isolation
- Defensiveness
- Mood Swings
- Not asking for help
- Not going to meetings
- Poor eating habits
- Poor sleep habits
There is also a stage of mental relapse that often occurs before physical picking up a substance, or old behavior. Signs of this stage include:
- Thinking about people, places and things you used to use with
- Glamorizing your past use
- Lying
- Hanging out with old using buddies
- Fantasizing about using
- Thinking about relapsing
- Planning a relapse
Keep an eye out for these behaviors, and if you notice some of them coming into your life, utilize your network and coping mechanisms to help work through these feelings.
