What is the most common time of relapse?

Relapse is an unfortunate but common part of the recovery process for individuals overcoming addiction. For those in recovery, understanding the times and situations in which they are most vulnerable to relapse is crucial. Relapse can be defined as the return to substance use after a period of sobriety, and it can occur at various stages of recovery, each with unique risk factors.

In this blog post, we will explore the most common times when relapse tends to occur, why these periods are so risky, and strategies to minimize the chances of falling back into old habits. Whether someone is in the early stages of recovery or has maintained sobriety for years, understanding these critical periods can be the key to long-term success.

Understanding the Stages of Relapse

Before diving into the specific times when relapse is most likely, it’s important to understand that relapse doesn’t happen in a single moment. Rather, it is a process that occurs in three stages: emotional, mental, and physical relapse. Each stage has warning signs that, if recognized, can help prevent a full return to substance use.

1. Emotional Relapse: This stage involves negative emotions such as anxiety, depression, and irritability. The individual may not be consciously thinking about using substances, but their emotional state increases the risk of relapse.
2. Mental Relapse: At this stage, the person begins to experience cravings and fantasizes about using again. They may start thinking about situations where they used substances or begin to seek out opportunities to use.
3. Physical Relapse: The final stage is the actual return to substance use, whether that’s drinking alcohol, using drugs, or engaging in the addictive behavior from which the individual has been recovering.

Relapse typically follows a predictable pattern, and certain times in the recovery journey are particularly risky.

The Most Common Times for Relapse

1. The First 90 Days After Treatment

One of the most vulnerable times for relapse is during the first 90 days after completing a treatment program. This period is often referred to as the “honeymoon phase” of recovery because individuals typically feel optimistic and motivated about their sobriety. However, this sense of optimism can mask underlying emotional or psychological issues that have not yet been fully addressed.

During this early phase, people are still learning how to live without their substance of choice and may not have fully developed the coping mechanisms needed to deal with stress, cravings, and triggers. Additionally, the brain is still adjusting to functioning without the influence of drugs or alcohol, which can lead to mood swings, irritability, and cravings. Research shows that the risk of relapse is highest within the first few months of sobriety, with estimates suggesting that up to 60% of individuals relapse within this time frame.

Common triggers during this time include:

• Stress from returning to normal life: Adjusting to responsibilities like work, family, and relationships without relying on substances can be overwhelming.
• Social isolation: If the person has distanced themselves from old social circles that involved substance use, they may feel lonely and seek comfort in old habits.
• Lack of structure: After leaving a structured treatment program, individuals may struggle with the unstructured nature of everyday life, leading to boredom, which can trigger a relapse.

2. During Major Life Transitions or Stressful Events

Another common time for relapse is during major life transitions or particularly stressful events. Even after maintaining sobriety for months or years, individuals in recovery remain vulnerable when they experience significant changes in their lives. Major life events, whether positive or negative, can introduce high levels of stress, and individuals may turn to substances as a coping mechanism.

Some examples of life transitions that increase the risk of relapse include:

• Moving to a new city or starting a new job: These changes can be both exciting and overwhelming. The stress of adjusting to new surroundings or new responsibilities can push individuals toward old habits as a way to cope.
• Divorce or relationship changes: The emotional pain associated with breakups or conflicts in relationships can lead to feelings of sadness, loneliness, and vulnerability, all of which are potential relapse triggers.
• Financial stress: Unemployment, debt, or financial hardship is a common trigger for relapse. The anxiety associated with financial struggles can make individuals more likely to seek temporary relief in substances.
• Loss of a loved one: Grieving the loss of a loved one can lead to depression, isolation, and emotional distress. In these difficult times, individuals may fall back into using substances as a way to numb the pain.

3. Holidays and Celebrations

Holidays and celebrations are another significant trigger for relapse. Whether it’s a birthday, wedding, holiday season, or even a family gathering, these events often involve alcohol or other substances. For individuals in recovery, the social pressure to partake in these substances can be overwhelming, especially if they are surrounded by people who are drinking or using drugs.

Additionally, holidays can be emotionally charged. For some, they bring up feelings of nostalgia, loneliness, or unmet expectations, all of which can contribute to relapse. Common times when relapse occurs include:

• Christmas and New Year’s: These holidays are especially challenging because they often involve alcohol consumption as part of the festivities.
• Birthdays or anniversaries: Even personal milestones can be triggers, especially if the individual associates these events with past substance use.
• Vacations: Time off from work or other responsibilities can lead to a more relaxed mindset, and individuals may feel like they deserve to indulge in old habits.

4. Anniversaries of Sobriety or Recovery Milestones

Ironically, anniversaries of sobriety or major recovery milestones can also be times of relapse. While these milestones are important celebrations of progress, they can also create internal pressure. Individuals may feel overconfident in their recovery and let their guard down, believing that they no longer need to be as vigilant about their sobriety. Alternatively, the approach of a significant sobriety milestone can cause anxiety or stress about maintaining long-term recovery.

Relapse during this time can be especially disheartening because the individual may feel like they have failed after having made significant progress. Common thoughts like “I’ve made it this far, so I deserve a reward” or “I’ve been sober for so long; I can handle one drink” can lead to a lapse in judgment that spirals into full relapse.

5. After a Period of Overconfidence

Overconfidence is a psychological pitfall that can occur after someone has maintained sobriety for an extended period. This stage can happen at any point during recovery, whether it’s months or even years after treatment. Overconfidence can lead individuals to believe they are no longer at risk of relapse and no longer need to follow the precautions that helped them maintain sobriety in the past.

Examples of overconfidence include:

• Stopping therapy or support group meetings: Once someone feels they have “conquered” their addiction, they may stop attending support groups or therapy sessions that played a key role in their recovery.
• Revisiting old environments: Returning to places or social circles associated with substance use, believing that they are now strong enough to resist temptation, can be a dangerous decision.
• Minimizing the importance of sobriety: The individual may start to rationalize substance use by thinking, “One drink won’t hurt,” or “I can handle it now.”

Strategies to Prevent Relapse During High-Risk Times

While relapse is a risk at various stages of recovery, there are strategies to help prevent it:

• Stay connected to support networks: Regularly attending support groups, therapy, and engaging with sober friends or sponsors can provide accountability and guidance during difficult times.
• Develop healthy coping mechanisms: Learning how to manage stress, anxiety, and negative emotions through exercise, mindfulness, or creative outlets can reduce the likelihood of turning to substances.
• Have a plan for high-risk situations: Whether it’s navigating holiday parties or dealing with a stressful life event, having a plan in place for how to stay sober can make a significant difference.

Conclusion

Relapse can happen at any point during recovery, but certain times are particularly high-risk. The first 90 days, major life transitions, holidays, anniversaries of sobriety, and periods of overconfidence are all common times for relapse. By recognizing these high-risk periods and implementing preventative strategies, individuals can increase their chances of maintaining long-term sobriety and avoiding the pitfalls of relapse. Call 833-846-5669 today.