Understanding Relapse
This term refers to returning to substance use after a period of abstinence.
What is relapse?
Skipping therapy, group meetings, or avoiding sober friends are examples of this.
What is social withdrawal?
Going for a walk, calling a friend, or listening to music are examples of these.
What are distraction techniques?
This group provides peer support through meetings and the 12-step program.
What is Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA)?
Eating nutritious meals helps prevent relapse by stabilizing these levels in the body.
What are blood sugar levels?
This stage of relapse happens first and often includes feelings of isolation, stress, and poor self-care.
What is emotional relapse?
Suddenly feeling overconfident in recovery and believing relapse is no longer a risk is called this.
What is complacency?
Identifying negative thoughts and replacing them with realistic, positive thoughts is part of this therapy.
What is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)?
A trained professional who helps individuals manage cravings and triggers in recovery.
What is a therapist or counselor?
Getting at least 30 minutes of this per day helps improve mood and reduce cravings.
What is exercise?
Thinking about using again, romanticizing past substance use, or planning a relapse falls under this stage.
What is mental relapse?
Neglecting hygiene, eating poorly, and not sleeping well are warning signs of this relapse stage.
What is emotional relapse?
Writing down feelings and thoughts to process emotions and track progress is known as this.
What is journaling?
True or False: Only people who struggle with addiction can help in recovery.
What is false?
Keeping a structured daily schedule can prevent relapse by reducing this.
What is boredom?
This is the biggest predictor of relapse, as unresolved issues often lead people back to substance use.
What is unmanaged stress?
Feeling overwhelmed by emotions but not reaching out for help can lead to this risk factor.
What is isolation?
This relaxation technique involves tensing and releasing muscles to reduce stress.
What is progressive muscle relaxation?
Having one of these—a trusted mentor or guide in a recovery program—can improve success.
What is a sponsor?
A common mindfulness practice that involves deep breathing and focusing on the present.
What is meditation?
The term for using a small amount of a substance but stopping again before fully relapsing.
What is a lapse?
True or False: A relapse usually happens suddenly and without warning.
What is false?
Creating a plan for high-risk situations and listing coping strategies is called this.
What is a relapse prevention plan?
A written or verbal commitment between a person in recovery and their support system to stay sober.
What is a sobriety contract?
The ability to adapt and recover from setbacks, crucial in preventing relapse, is known as this.
What is resilience?