When going through recovery, sometimes people fall into a relapse at least once during their journey. A relapse is when someone who is not using begins to use again. This is usually caused by various internal or external triggers. This does not have to be the case for everyone, however. Learning to know what triggers you have can help you work through them and help you have a plan to prevent a relapse. Let's take a look at some common triggers and how to work with them.
Stress
Not surprisingly, but one of the main triggers of a relapse is stress. It is not uncommon for those who struggle with addiction to turn to or begin craving their drug of choice during stressful times. In fact, many research studies show that "wanting" to participate in drug use was the person's primary coping mechanism for dealing with stress.
One of the most important steps to take here, would be to evaluate what stresses you currently have in your life. Evaluate them and then remove them. Although you may not be able to remove every single stressful person or thing in your life, you can control avoiding stressful situations. You can start by making a list of people, places, or things that illicit this response from you.
Who or what causes you stress? This could be anything from a toxic relationship to a financial situation. Some ways to help manage stress include practicing mindfulness, managing your time to avoid panic mode, and incorporating healthy eating and exercise in your daily routine. Working with a therapist or counselor can help you learn how to listen to your body and learn what to watch for.
People or Places Related to the Drug Use
People who were involved in your drug use could be a trigger. Even if they are no longer using, there is a lot of history and emotion that could bring up feelings of wanting to participate in drug use once more. This goes for places as well and even family members, especially if they make you feel vulnerable or child-like.
When you are reminded of your addiction, it is important to have a plan to deal with all these emotions that might arise from these situations. For example, if friends are inviting you to go out drinking and you are recovering from drinking, have a response ready or another activity suggestion. You can brainstorm ideas with your counselor or therapist different ways to respond to situations likes these so that you are better prepared.
Emotions
Challenging and negative emotions from daily life can be a trigger. People who are recovering will need to find a healthy way to cope with these feelings, especially since drugs and alcohol were usually used to deal with these negative feelings to begin with. Remember, having these feelings is not a setback as long as you learn to deal with them in a healthy way.
Emotions can be a growth opportunity. Learning how to deal with them and not use is an invaluable lesson. Things like mediating and journaling can be beneficial. Come up with a plan with your counselor on different healthy alternatives to dealing with emotions.
Coming in Contact With The Drug
Reminders of your addiction can trigger a relapse, even something as small as a whiff of cigarette smoke or watching others enjoying a few cocktails. Such reminders might feel like they are everywhere in the beginning stages of your recovery, however, recovery is not just about quitting. Recovery is about creating a new life for yourself and making healthier choices for yourself.
Remember the negative consequences from the time you used. For example, people may have been hurt and relationships may have been lost. You might think that you want to use again, but in reality, it brought a lot more heartache. Instead, create a plan for a healthier behavior to replace the old habits. Things like yoga or other physical activities are great alternatives. You might even enjoy taking a nice relaxing bath or going for walk and listening to music.
Celebrations
Even positive settings like family celebrations can be a trigger. Perhaps holding a drink in your hand gave you the confidence to flirt and chat, but without it, perhaps you are not so sure of yourself. Even so, can you keep it under control? Many individual who are struggling with addiction have a hard time knowing exactly when to quit. Thus, one drink leads to a binge. In situations like these, it may be helpful to have someone you trust go with you during these situations. It will need to be someone that can firmly and kindly tell you to stop.
Relapse is something that could occur during recovery, but it is not a failure. It is a small detour in your road to recovery. Working with your counselor, recognizing your triggers, and coming up with different healthy alternatives can help you stay healthy.