How to Cope With A Fear of Relapsing
There are many working toward recovery from an addiction who will relapse at least once during the process. There could be more than one relapse. The fear of relapsing can be daunting. Worrying about it can cause anxiety that makes relapse more likely. It’s a cycle you very much want to avoid.
There is no part of your recovery that wants you to relapse. Only your addiction wants you to relapse. But here's the reassuring truth: a relapse is not inevitable. Recognizing that you can still achieve sobriety even if you experience a relapse is crucial. With the proper treatment and a robust support system, you can overcome the obstacles that may seem intimidating.
Your journey toward recovery is a path filled with ups and downs. Relapsing, while challenging, does not define your ultimate destination. Instead, it can be a turning point—a moment of reflection and learning. You can use your relapse experience to catalyze positive change in your recovery journey. Embrace that setbacks can be steppingstones, and with determination and the right resources, you can continue your march toward lasting sobriety.
Relapse is Not the Only Fear
A factor that can facilitate a relapse is the underlying fear of sobriety. After struggling with an addiction, it’s not unusual to wonder if you can return to a “normal” life. Such a concern is understandable and will be addressed during your treatment. You’ll be guided in developing the coping skills that can ultimately make the process successful. There’s a good reason why you are encouraged to take things one day at a time.
How to Cope With a Fear of Relapsing
1. Talk About It
Tell your therapist, loved ones, and people in your relapse prevention & support groups what’s happening. This will not only get you the support you need, but it will also relieve some of the isolating pressure you’re feeling.
2. Develop a Plan
Again, you will need to consult with the varied people in your life. Whether it happens now or years from now, you can and likely will find yourself in a “life situation” that feels beyond your control or just plain difficult and stressful! Work together with others to devise a plan for times like these. Teamwork & support is far superior to trying to go it alone.
3. Remember: You’re Not the Only One With a Fear of Relapsing
Relapse is a concern shared by individuals on the path to recovery and their loved ones. It can be helpful to engage your family members in your recovery journey, fostering a supportive and healthy environment. Encourage your family to play an active role by promoting participation in support groups and embracing your choices that lead to a happier, more balanced life. Often, family members can spot potential warning signs of relapse before they become evident to you, providing an extra layer of vigilance, healthy boundaries, and care to help maintain your recovery journey.
4. Know the Common Signs of a Relapse
Knowing what to look for is a giant step in dealing with your fears. This means that the people in your life could also be aware of the symptoms. As with all such scenarios, each person will have some unique factors to consider. But, generally speaking, there are well-known signs that a relapse is happening or about to happen. These include:
Self-isolation, avoidance, and withdrawal from the people in their life
Noticeable changes in daily habits like sleep patterns, appetite, and hygiene
Depression or any other shift in their mood
Displaying overconfidence in their ability to recover — to the point of relaxing the rules
Downplaying the importance of a relapse
Generally obsessive behavior
Engaging in addictive behavior but aimed in new directions, e.g., gaming, exercise, work, pornography, gambling, etc.
Associating with people who abuse substances on a regular basis
Successful Recovery is a Collaboration
Many will experience a relapse. But with or without this setback, you will increase your odds of healing by learning to lean on the professionals and healthy loved ones in your life. If you and your support group understand that a relapse is not rare and does not equate to failure, it can alleviate some of the fear. Recovery is not linear. When you and your supporters recognize that the road will have some bumps, the experience feels more doable.
If the fear of relapsing has you feeling stuck, do not suffer in silence. I invite you to reach out today to start a conversation that can change your life. We offer addiction counseling and other holistic services to prevent future relapse.