Recognizing Symptoms of Relapse in Your Loved One
Substance abuse disorder treatment doesn’t follow a straight line.
Rather, it’s an up and down, curvy line that may include some instances of relapse. The sooner you notice your
Most importantly, don’t view relapse as a failure of treatment. Rather, see relapse as a common component of the rehabilitation journey. The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that between 40 and 60 percent of people in
By understanding what triggers relapse, you may be able to offer better support to your loved one. The following warning signs point to potential or active drug or
A Noticeable Change in Personality or Attitude
When a person starts using again, they know you’ll be disappointed. They do what they can to hide it. This may include pushing you away or being angry at you for unknown reasons. You may feel as though they are no longer communicating with you. A change in attitude like this may be due to the internal fight going on, one that may have your loved one considering using again.
If you notice this warning sign, take action. If your loved one will not talk to you about what’s happening, provide a way for them to speak with someone who can help. They may have a sponsor, counselor, or support team you can encourage them to contact.
High Stress and Exposure to Triggers
One of the key causes of relapse is exposure to triggers. Triggers can include the workplace, certain people, or a health problem. When exposure to a trigger occurs, your loved one may seem to be under a lot of
Encourage your loved one to open up–if not to you than to their support team. High levels of stress can lead to relapse, but with early
More Frequent Display of Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal symptoms should stop during alcohol and drug abuse treatment. If you notice withdrawal symptoms again, that could mean that your loved one has started using again. Specifically, look for things like memory loss, trouble sleeping, depression, and a loss of appetite.
If you think your loved one is undergoing withdrawal, confront them if it is safe to do. Discuss what’s happening and why. Ask them to be honest, but don’t be shocked if they are not. This may be a good time to revisit a support group or get back in touch with the treatment center.
Other Warning Signs You Cannot Ignore
Everyone experiences relapse a bit differently. If you believe your loved one may be using, for any reason, push them to seek help. Some additional warning signs include:
- Changes in behavior, such as deviating from a daily routine, or compulsive behaviors that were not there before
- Lack of personal hygiene or good
nutrition, especially if those were symptoms of use previously - A breakdown of their
relationships with friends, family, or their 12-step program or AA group - Loss of judgment, such as being willing to make bad decisions that put themselves or loved ones at risk
- Not seeming to care about work or family life or being uninterested in hobbies or other activities they used to love
- Onset of depression or sudden instances of high anxiety levels
Overdose or any instance in which you see them using the drugs or alcohol
If your loved one has been through our drug or alcohol treatment program at Victory
If you believe your loved one is relapsing, trust your judgment. Contact your treatment center for immediate help or call Victory Addiction Recovery Center for immediate help.
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