Dr. Steven Melemis
6 minutes
Relapse Warning Signs for Clients in Recovery
Relapse means a return to substance use after a time of not using. It is common in recovery. In the stages of change, a return to use is one stage, and many people cycle through it. It is not a sign of failure. Relapse rarely starts with the first drink or dose. It often builds in three stages. First comes an emotional stage. The person bottles up feelings, skips meetings or counseling, and stops eating or sleeping well. Next comes a mental stage. They feel cravings, talk fondly about past use, or plan to use 'just once.' They may start seeing old friends who use. The last stage is using again. You can notice the first two stages and talk about them. One big danger: after time away, the body loses tolerance. The amount a person once used can now cause an overdose. This is why overdose risk is high after jail, a hospital stay, or treatment. Other things look like early relapse signs. Stress, grief, and depression can cause poor sleep and pulling away. Ask how recovery is going and what support they have. Make sure they know how to get naloxone, a medicine that reverses an opioid overdose. After this Concept you can spot early relapse warning signs and respond with support, not blame.