5 Myths About Relapse, Fact-Checked

Debunking 5 Myths About Relapse

Myth #1: Relapse Means You’re Weak

Fighting addiction isn’t easy, and relapse is part of the recovery journey.

Relapsing doesn’t mean that an individual is weak or a failure. These thoughts can lead to feelings of worthlessness, shame, guilt, and self-hatred, which further hinder addiction recovery.

When an addict relapses, they should accept their situation and continue the journey to sobriety. 

Myth #2: Relapse Indicates That Treatment Has Failed

One of the most common myths about relapse is that falling off the wagon means that treatment has failed.

This could not be further from the truth. Addiction recovery is a process, and it’s not always linear. Many people are treated for addiction more than once.

Learning more about addiction, overcoming it, and developing coping strategies help prevent future instances of relapse.

Myth #3: Relapse Cannot Be Prevented

While relapse is common, one of the myths surrounding it is that it cannot be prevented.

However, there is a lot you can do to cope with triggers and prevent a relapse. This includes using coping skills and other behavior you have learned during your addiction recovery journey.

In addition to being open about your struggles, you can confide in those close to you, seek support from them, and use coping skills taught in addiction recovery centers.

Myth #4: Relapse Always Comes Out of Nowhere 

An individual relapsing is often preceded by signs that can help you anticipate it.

If your loved one suffers from addiction, keep an eye on their behavior and reach out to them and encourage them if you notice the following red flags:

• Stopping attending meetings/counseling and not participating in the usual recovery process
• Romanticizing the past and thinking of it as the “good old days”
• Becoming withdrawn from family and friends
• Being overwhelmed and feeling out of control or stressed out 
• Returning to old settings or associating with individuals from their past that may trigger them

Myth #5: If You Relapse, You’re a Lost Cause

This is one of the most damaging myths about relapse.

Addiction is a chronic illness, and relapse is more common than individuals think. In fact, addiction statistics show that 40 – 60% of those suffering from substance use disorder (SUD) relapse within a year of treatment.

These individuals are not lost causes – just because you relapse once doesn’t mean you cannot achieve sobriety.

Many addicts who relapse seek treatment, stay sober, and lead a fulfilling life.

Summary

If you or a loved one has relapsed, do not give up hope.

The addiction recovery process is challenging but possible. Reach out to Pathways Recovery Centers at 1-888-744-6597 or contact us here to learn about our various treatment options.