Relapse
Relapse is a tragic reality of addiction (alcoholism). Addiction is a complex but treatable brain disease. It is characterized by compulsive drug craving, seeking, and use in the face of severe consequences. Relapse to drug abuse occurs at rates similar to those for other well-characterized, chronic medical illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, and asthma. As a chronic, recurring illness, addiction may require repeated treatments to increase the intervals between relapses and diminish their intensity, until abstinence is achieved.
I have relapsed while in treatment many times. In fact out of my 10 treatment experiences - I used, tried to use, or left to use, 50% of the time. 80% of the time, I relapsed within the first year of my recovery. Addiction is a brain disease. The brain controls our behavior. Therefore relapse is part of the disease. It will occur in most attempts at recovery. What steps can we take to help our addicts and alcoholics when they relapse?
Increase the amount of containment; Increase the amount of structure; Increase accountability
Increase education; Increase or modify therapy; Increase medical or psychiatric care; Increase the number of 12 Step meetings; Encourage spiritual practices; Encourage healthy exercise and nutrition; Reduce the shame of relapse and encourage honesty; Just for today, let’s stop living in denial! Relapse is part of the disease and therefore part of our recovery.