Mental Relapse (Part II)

Relapse is a process and not an event. In this second part of the relapse process this is where the rubber starts to meet the road, as they say. Since we are good at convincing ourselves and practically expert at justification then it’s easy to see why this is critical crossroads. In mental relapse there’s a war being waged in your head. Part of you wants to drink/use, but part of you doesn’t. In the early phase of mental relapse, you’re may think about using and how it makes you feel, but still exerting some control. In the later part a plan is being conceived.

The signs of mental relapse are:

• Thinking about people, places, and things. • Glorifying your past use • Lying • Reconnecting with old using friends • Fantasizing about using • Planning your relapse and rationalizing it maybe “manageable”.

Tips for Surviving Mental Relapse

While all the proven healthy coping skills still apply, at this stage of the relapse process, you may need an immediate intervention… a distraction from your destructive thoughts. If the thought of using becomes too great to ignore, try the following:

Talk a walk – Burning off some energy and getting plenty of fresh air can help you recalibrate and give you time to see the big picture.

Change your scenery – A unique environment can help take your mind off of your cravings so you can reflect on the consequence of relapsing after all of your hard work.

Share your feelings – This is why sponsors, support groups and loved ones are such an important component of any recovering addict’s long-term sobriety plan.

You aren’t the only one who has experienced these thoughts, so don’t feel like you have to deal with them alone. As difficult as the mental relapse stage may be, it’s much easier to resolve than a full-blown physical relapse. The important thing to remember is that while physical relapse is a possibility among recovering addicts, it is not unavoidable.

Safe Haven Recovery is a boutique Florida Drug & Alcohol Treatment Center located in Miami, FL. We specialize in Suboxone Maintenance & Detox, along with, Couples Addiction Treatment. Call us today at 866-447-4650.

About the Author

Matthew Koenig is a freelance writer and principal of Last Call Marketing which devotes their efforts to Digital Marketing, SEO and Social Engagement. Concentrated in addiction recovery, Mr. Koenig is based out of South Florida. His sober date is June 10, 2013.

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