Emotional Relapse
What is the first stage of relapse? Why do you think relapse often starts long before a person engages in unhealthy behaviors?
Emotional Relapse
Mental relapse is often described as a "war" between what two things?
Recovery and returning to unhealthy behaviors.
What is physical relapse?
Returning to unhealthy or destructive behaviors.
Name one common relapse warning sign discussed today.
Ex: Emotional withdrawal, aggressive behavior, avoidance, etc
What does a relapse prevention plan help you do?
Identify warning signs and action steps before a crisis occurs.
Name two warning signs of emotional relapse.
Isolation, irritability, bottling emotions, poor sleep, poor diet, refusing help, anxiety, emotional withdrawal.
What does it mean to romanticize past behaviors?
Remembering only the perceived benefits while forgetting the consequences.
True or False: Physical relapse usually happens suddenly.
False
What support person might someone avoid contacting when relapse risk increases?
Sponsor, mentor, therapist, support group, accountability partner.
What should you do when you notice relapse warning signs?
Take action immediately rather than waiting for things to worsen.
True or False: During emotional relapse, people are usually actively planning to return to unhealthy behaviors.
False
Give an example of bargaining during mental relapse.
"Just once won't hurt."
"I can handle it now."
"I deserve a break."
Physical relapse is usually the result of what?
Lack of awareness/ early intervention into the emotional and mental relapse.
What happens when someone begins neglecting recovery practices?
Relapse risk increases.
Name one action discussed today that can help prevent relapse.
Reach out for support, attend meetings, use coping skills, improve sleep, follow routines, review prevention plan.
What role does denial play in emotional relapse?
Denial prevents people from recognizing warning signs and asking for help.
Name three warning signs of mental relapse.
Cravings, bargaining, lying, minimizing consequences, romanticizing, thinking about people/places connected to unhealthy behaviors.
Why is it important to identify warning signs before reaching physical relapse?
Because intervention is easier and recovery supports can be activated before a crisis occurs.
Why can increasing anxiety or depression be considered relapse warning signs?
Mental health symptoms often worsen before a relapse occurs.
Why is maintaining healthy routines important?
Healthy routines support emotional stability and recovery.
Why is isolation considered one of the most dangerous warning signs?
It reduces accountability, support, and opportunities for others to notice concerns.
True or false. Being secretive, dishonest, or hiding behavior is an example of mental relapse.
True
Complete this statement:
Physical relapse is often the ________ symptom, not the first.
Final
Name five relapse warning signs.
Examples include: Isolation, Irritability, Poor sleep, Romanticizing the past, Increased anxiety, Depression, Neglecting self-care
Complete the statement:
Relapse is __________.
Predictable.