Addiction is described as a chronic relapsing condition and we see this in the majority of people who are attempting abstinence from their drug of choice. Although relapse is not inevitable when attempting abstinence, it is very common. Like anything, this reality can be used to rationalize, justify and used as an excuse to continuously relapse or be used to manipulate loved ones and family. On the other hand, sometimes the addict and loved ones are baffled by a relapse and do not know how to make sense of it.
Shame is intrinsic in addiction and addicts compensate for their shame in different ways. There is a connotation of failure attached to relapse which exacerbates the shame of the addict. This could lead to the addict concealing the relapse thus cutting off all support in this vulnerable time. Or having an attitude of “I’ve messed up, so I might as well continue to use or drink” We know that left unattended to relapse soon becomes full-blow active addiction in no time.
Relapse is also an uncomfortable issue to talk about with addicts and loved ones and is often avoided. However, this is a reality that needs to face and to plan around.
Family members and loved ones are advised to plan what they will do in the event of a relapse, so does the addict.
if a relapse does occur, the addict is advised to expose it. The relapse does not just happen, often it is a process where actions were taken or not taken, which resulted in the addict becoming vulnerable to relapse. This awareness is often not present in the build-up to the relapse. The relapse needs to be deconstructed and understood. Everyone needs to learn from the relapse. This involves exploring the thinking, emotional and behavioural processes leading to the relapse.
You need to understand your disease.
SHARING IS CARING
