Relapse in alcohol addiction is a process that can start long before the actual act of drinking alcohol again. Recognizing the signs of relapse can be crucial
for intervening effectively. Here’s a breakdown of some signs to look out for, which are often described in phases: ###- Emotional Relapse During this phase,
the individual is not actively thinking about drinking but their emotions and behaviors are setting them up for a potential relapse in the future. -
Isolation: Avoiding social interactions, meetings, or support groups. - Not expressing emotions: Bottling up feelings such as anger, sadness,
frustration, or anxiety. - Skipping self-care: Neglecting physical health, sleep, diet, or exercise routines, which were part of their recovery plan. -
Denial of problems: Not acknowledging the struggles or the creeping return of poor coping mechanisms. ### 2. Mental Relapse In the mental relapse stage,
there's an internal battle occurring. Part of the person wants to drink, while another part wants to continue abstinence. - Craving for alcohol: An
increased desire to drink as a way to escape or feel better. - Glamorizing past drinking: Reminiscing about past drinking days only with fond memories,
while forgetting the negative consequences. - Bargaining: Negotiating with oneself about drinking again (e.g., thinking they can now control their drinking
or will only drink on special occasions). - Lying: Starting to lie to others about whereabouts or feelings, or what one is thinking about alcohol. -
Seeking out old habits or friends related to drinking: Reconnecting with drinking buddies or visiting bars as if testing one’s willpower. ### 3. Physical
Relapse This is the phase where the individual starts drinking again. - Taking the first drink: This is often described as a lapse. - Loss of control:
Once the first drink is taken, many find they cannot control subsequent consumption, leading back into active alcohol dependency. ### Prevention and Actions: -
Early recognition: Recognizing early signs in emotional or mental relapse phases is key. - Reach out for support: Contact a sponsor, attend support
group meetings more frequently, or seek help from a therapist or counselor. - Engage in healthy activities: Redirect the mind with hobbies, exercise, or
other engaging activities. - Reaffirm goals: Remind oneself of the reasons for sobriety and the benefits it has brought into one's life. - Crisis plan:
Have a clear plan of action if feeling on the brink of relapse, which might include emergency contacts, places to go that are safe, or coping strategies that
have worked in the past. Understanding these signs and having proactive strategies in place can significantly help in maintaining sobriety and responding
effectively to the challenges of recovery.
