Triggers of Addiction Relapse and How to Avoid Them

Some people believe that addiction relapse is unavoidable, which is undoubtedly a false assumption. Being aware of common triggers of relapse and imminent signals is the first step and knowledge towards long-term addiction recovery.

Many addicts often relapse at least once during the recovery process, and some fail several times before relapsing eventually. The first step to avoid reverting to drug addiction is to understand what triggers the addiction relapse.

One of the most successful ways to prevent relapse is to identify personal relapse triggers. Later, you can establish a comprehensive plan on how you will manage and avoid those triggers.

The following are the top triggers of addiction relapse you need to know.

Stress can Trigger Addiction Relapse

Stress is the top cause of relapse, with many addicts reverting to their drugs or substance of abuse as a way of managing it. It is difficult to eliminate all forms of stress from your life. However, you can avoid unfavorable circumstances that cause stress by changing your relationships, lifestyle, and priorities.  Positive ways of handling stress include mind and body relaxation training, moderate exercises, efficient time management, and a healthy diet.

Sensing or Observing the Causes of Your Addiction

Remembering or identifying your addictive behaviors can trigger addiction relapse during recovery. For instance, the smell of cigarette smoke or observing people drinking in a bar will remind you of addiction, especially during the early stages of quitting.

To resist such triggers, avoid visiting places that you know might cause triggers.

Physical or Mental Illness can Trigger Addiction Relapse

Anxiety, depression, and other mental illnesses can trigger drug or alcohol relapse. Chronic pain and physical illness can also trigger relapse since your body feels uncomfortable and distressed.

Also, prescription medicines for physical and mental sicknesses can alter your mind resulting in addiction relapse. It is crucial to share with your doctor about your recovery journey and insist on getting non-addictive prescriptions.

Additionally, obtain treatment for any underlying mental disorders. Ensure you monitor your feelings and emotions with a journal to minimize the chances of sneaking into old habits.

Times of Celebration and Places Linked to the Addictive Behavior

Celebration events such as birthday parties and holidays are common triggers too. Such situations will make you feel joyful, or in full control and have excuses that a single drink or cigarette is not a bad idea to supplement your celebrations. Eventually, a bottle can result in strong urges and temptations to consume more, leading to addiction relapse.

To avoid relapse, ensure you have a loyal friend to help you in places or events that puts you at risk of relapse. Have somebody you trust to compassionately but firmly convince you to stop getting into addiction if you feel tempted.

Also, avoid visiting places that put you at high risk of relapse alone. Being alone will make you unable to realize your good recovering behavior, which disappears once you join the party.

To ensure you avoid triggers to addiction relapse, visit an addiction specialist or mental health professional in your area since they can assist you in developing coping strategies.