The Severity of Relapse and Why Support is Necessary for a Solid & Stable Recovery

Blog by Michael Romano CARC/CRPA-P at Let's Get It Recovery Coaching

Hello, my name is Mikey, and I'm a SoberSuccess coach. Today, I want to talk about why relapse can be deadly for a person in recovery, and the importance of support in recovery.

Addiction is a disease that affects millions of people around the world. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 31 million people worldwide suffer from a substance use disorder. In the United States alone, more than 20 million people aged 12 or older have an addiction to drugs or alcohol.

Addiction is a chronic and progressive disease that affects a person's brain and behavior. It's characterized by compulsive drug-seeking and use, despite the harmful consequences. Addiction is not a moral failing or a lack of willpower. It's a complex disease that requires a comprehensive approach to treatment.

Treatment for addiction usually involves a combination of medication-assisted therapy, behavioral therapy, and support groups. However, even with the best treatment available, addiction is a chronic disease that requires lifelong management.

One of the biggest challenges for people in recovery is the risk of relapse. Relapse is the recurrence of substance use after a period of abstinence. It's a common occurrence for people in recovery, and it can happen to anyone.

However, relapse can be deadly for a person in recovery. Here's why:

Increased risk of overdose

When a person returns to substance use after a period of abstinence, their tolerance for the substance decreases. This means that they're more likely to overdose if they take the same amount of drugs or alcohol that they used to before they got sober.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drug overdose deaths have been on the rise in recent years. In 2019, there were 70,630 drug overdose deaths in the United States. Of those deaths, 50,042 involved opioids.

Increased risk of accidents

Substance use can impair a person's judgment, coordination, and reaction time. This can increase the risk of accidents, such as car crashes, falls, and other types of injuries.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drunk driving is a leading cause of traffic fatalities in the United States. In 2019, there were 10,142 deaths in alcohol-impaired driving crashes.

Increased risk of suicide

People with addiction are at increased risk of suicide. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), people with addiction are six times more likely to attempt suicide than the general population.

In addition, substance use can worsen underlying mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, which can also increase the risk of suicide.

Negative impact on physical and mental health

Substance use can have a negative impact on a person's physical and mental health. Chronic substance use can lead to liver damage, heart disease, respiratory problems, and other health issues.

In addition, substance use can worsen underlying mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety. This can lead to a range of negative consequences, such as social isolation, relationship problems, and difficulty functioning at work or school.

Increased risk of legal problems

Substance use can also increase a person's risk of legal problems, such as arrests and convictions for drug-related offenses. These legal problems can have a negative impact on a person's life, making it difficult to find employment, housing, and other opportunities.

Now that we've discussed why relapse can be deadly for a person in recovery, let's talk about the importance of support in recovery.

Recovery is a lifelong journey, and it requires ongoing support from a variety of sources. Here are some of the key sources of support that can help people in recovery:

Professional treatment

Professional treatment is an essential part of the recovery process. Treatment can include medication-assisted therapy, behavioral therapy, and other evidence-based approaches. A counselor or sober coach can help to keep you on the path of recovery. It's important to work with qualified professionals who can provide personalized treatment and support.

Support groups

Support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA), can provide valuable support and connection for people in recovery. These groups offer a safe and supportive environment where people can share their experiences, struggles, and successes with others who understand what they're going through.

Family and friends

Family and friends can also be a valuable source of support for people in recovery. Loved ones can provide emotional support, help with practical tasks, and offer a listening ear when needed. However, it's important to work on repairing any relationships that may have been damaged by addiction.

Sober living environments

Sober living environments, such as halfway houses and sober living homes, can provide a safe and supportive environment for people in recovery. These environments offer structured living arrangements and support services, such as counseling and peer support, to help people maintain their sobriety.

Holistic approaches

Holistic approaches, such as meditation, yoga, and exercise, can also be valuable sources of support for people in recovery. These approaches can help reduce stress, improve mental health, and promote overall well-being.

In conclusion, relapse can be deadly for a person in recovery. Substance use can have a range of negative consequences, including an increased risk of overdose, accidents, suicide, and legal problems. It's important to seek professional treatment and ongoing support to help manage addiction and reduce the risk of relapse.

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there is hope. Recovery is possible, and with the right treatment and support, people can lead healthy and fulfilling lives in sobriety. Don't hesitate to reach out for help and support – it can make all the difference. Start your Journey of Sobriety and Success with some FREE resources and schedule a FREE 1:1 virtual coaching session today, just tap⬇️

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