Battling addiction has its many struggles. Overcoming addiction has its own struggles as well. Even when it seems like the battle is won, the war is never truly over.
There’s always the possibility of falling into a relapse. If you or someone you know is a recovering addict, then you’ve most likely seen the effects that relapse triggers can have on someone.
Navigating through every-day life activities is more challenging for an addict than one might think.
That’s why it’s essential to know the most common relapse triggers and how to avoid them. Continue reading below for everything you need to know!
1. Mental Illness
If there’s an undiagnosed mental illness, then an addict might be triggered by this. When someone is suffering from depression, anxiety, or another form of mental illness, then he or she might begin to find their own ways of coping.
Some of these ways might include doing drugs to relieve themselves of their pain. The same can be said for those who are recovering addicts but have recently suffered from a physical injury and are prescribed pain meds.
2. Parties or Celebrations
Parties, get-togethers, and other celebrations are wonderful times to be surrounded by good company and family, but most of these events come with alcohol and other drugs.
Attending events like these could trigger a recovering addict to relapse. Although a recovering addict might know that these events could lead to a relapse, they can’t always be avoided.
To avoid falling into a relapse due to celebrations, an addict should have a friend or partner alongside them to help them stay away from temptations.
3. Stressful Relationships
Stressful relationships are another cause of possible relapse. This isn’t limited to romantic relationships either. This could be relationships with friends, family, co-workers, and employers as well.
Having a sponsor by your side and resources from drug and alcohol rehab centers is an excellent way to navigate through these tough times without relying on drugs or alcohol.
4. Daily Hurdles
Let’s face it; life comes with daily hurdles that cause stress. When the stress of daily life begins to pile up, an addict may begin to wonder what the point in staying sober is. In most cases, there are plenty of reasons for an addict to stay sober but are blinded by stress.
This is another great time to contact a sponsor for the addict.
5. Boredom and Loneliness
Pure boredom and loneliness also have an effect on a recovering addict. When your mind has all of the time in the world to think and wonder, it can cause bad habits. When an addict is lonely or bored, he or she might turn to drugs and alcohol to pass the time.
To avoid this, a recovering addict should do his or her best to keep him or herself busy at all times. Find other healthier ways to deal with boredom such as practicing a hobby.
Know These Relapse Triggers and Stop Them in Their Tracks!
If you know the signs of these common relapse triggers, then you’ll be able to stop them before allowing them to send you or a loved one into a relapse.
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