By Nathan Bailey, MA, LPC
Maintaining lasting change is hard work—and sometimes, despite our best efforts, we experience a recovery relapse. When this happens, it’s easy to spiral into a catastrophic mindset and feel like all our progress has vanished. However, there are practical steps you can take to respond to a recovery relapse and prevent further disruption to your journey.
Below are six proven strategies to help you manage a recovery relapse and get back on track:
1. Don’t Keep Going Unchecked
A common reaction to a recovery relapse is thinking, “I’ve blown it; I might as well keep going.” This mindset, fueled by guilt and shame, can trap you in old patterns. Instead, recognize that you can choose a different response this time. If previous relapses led to prolonged setbacks, now is the time to draw a firm line. Remind yourself: “I’m stopping now.” This small, decisive action can prevent further damage and help you regain control.
2. Reach Out for Help
Admitting a recovery relapse can be daunting, but seeking help is essential. Whether it’s a medical professional, a trusted sponsor, a fellow peer in recovery, a therapist, or even a family member, lean on your support system. The people you’ve chosen to help you are invested in your success—they want to see you rebound. Reaching out is a powerful step toward rebuilding your momentum.
3. Slow Things Down
After a recovery relapse, you might feel the urge to prove that you’re not falling back into old habits. However, rebuilding too quickly can lead to burnout or further setbacks. Instead, prioritize deliberate, measured actions that reinforce long-term recovery. Taking time to recover properly can prevent another relapse and set you up for sustainable change.
4. Learn from What Happened
Relapse doesn’t just happen; it’s usually the result of multiple factors building over time. Often referred to as “the relapse before the relapse,” these early warning signs are crucial for understanding your triggers. Reflect on the events and emotions leading up to your recovery relapse. By learning from these experiences, you can identify patterns and develop strategies to avoid similar pitfalls in the future.
5. Build Back Stronger
A recovery relapse can be an opportunity to challenge old assumptions about your recovery. It’s not just about mindset and willpower—it might also require significant changes in your life, such as reassessing your relationships, environment, and routines. Use this setback to rebuild a stronger foundation. Enhancing your resiliency now can make your recovery journey even more robust moving forward.
6. Don’t Give Up
Most importantly, remember that one recovery relapse does not define your entire journey. Whether you’ve been in recovery for weeks or decades, every day is a chance to make progress. Don’t let guilt, disappointment, or frustration pull you back into old behaviors. Celebrate each day of recovery, knowing that every small victory contributes to a better, healthier future.
Let Us Help You on Your Journey
At Lime Tree Counseling, we’re dedicated to helping you prevent and recover from a recovery relapse. We offer comprehensive counseling services, including addictions counseling (for substances, pornography, and gambling), anxiety counseling, trauma counseling, and grief counseling. Our office in Lower Gwynedd, PA, is ready to support you, and we also provide online counseling in Pennsylvania, Colorado, and North Carolina.
Schedule your appointment today and take the next step toward lasting recovery. Remember, a setback is just a setup for a comeback—your journey is far from over.