OVERCOMING RELAPSE AFTER ADDICTION RECOVERY

For some people, recovery from addiction does not go exactly the way they want it, and it is due to the fact that, the road to sobriety is laced with challenges, and a good number of recovery journeys often include a relapse period into either drug or alcohol use.

Relapse is normal, however, it is a dangerous recovery phase. Addiction is a chronic disease which affects the brain, and this implies that, it could last for several months, and affect the working of the brain. Substance abuse modifies the normal functioning of the brain, which makes people to compulsively and obsessively seek addictive substances not minding the adverse harmful effects.

Now, restoring the normal functioning of the brain is difficult, and this is one of the major reasons why relapse occurs in most people during the period of recovery. It could take around months or years for the brain of an individual to recover fully from substance abuse. During this phase, cravings and triggers can induce relapse.

Rehabs are in place to assist people to overcome addiction. However, there are some people that never really recover, they only learn how to manage the symptoms which comes with the disease. A good number of people who are in recovery, are susceptible to relapse.

There are a good number of reasons why people relapse, it could be as a result of old memories, which can cause strong cravings for substance abuse. People who do not have healthy coping habits could have the belief that drugs or alcohol is the best way to relieve stress.

One of the most profound ways to prevent relapse, is to consistently practice coping behaviors. Also, it is important to find a proficient support system which will aid in avoiding risk factors.

In addition, the chances of relapse can also be reduced by getting steady employment, maintenance of a steady and safe home environment, going for support group meetings, and regular practice of stress-relief techniques, alongside with discovering purpose for your life.