A psychology specialist explaining an action plan for recovery to a troubled teenage boy during an individual therapy session.
Relapse is sometimes an unfortunate part of our recovery. When it happens, it is easy to feel an overwhelming sense of guilt and defeat.
Returning to the meetings you went to and friends you have can be daunting, and may even feel impossible. Shame and disappointment in yourself can be overpowering.
Don’t give up.
You are worth recovering, and it is possible to get back on the right track. When you are struggling to come back to sobriety, there are things you can do to get started and overcome your fear.
#1. Ask for Help
When a relapse occurs, we may feel very alone. Sometimes we isolate out of shame and guilt. This is when we need support more than ever.
Reach out to someone from your recovery program and be honest with them. This can be a sponsor you had, a friend, or someone from your rehab center.
Judgment is what we fear the most in these situations, but you will be surprised how many people are willing and anxious to support you. Tell them what is going on and take their suggestions.
They may recommend seeking medical help if you need to detox from alcohol or other drugs. Be willing and open to what they recommend. A friend will want to help you recover, and by asking for help, you are showing them that you are ready to take the next steps.
You are not alone, and you are deserving of recovery. The first step is to take that leap and ask for help.
#2. Understand Why You Relapsed
No matter how much sober time we have before a relapse, there are usually signs and symptoms before we ever take the first drink or drug. If you are in the midst of a recovery program, there may have been areas where you didn’t commit fully.
Was there a lack of spirituality or connection to a Higher Power? Did you stop attending meetings or working with a sponsor? Perhaps there were challenges where you did not seek guidance from your friends.
Once you are more stable and have a clear mind away from alcohol or other drugs, have a discussion with someone in recovery. Be honest. Together, you may be able to find where your recovery lacked strength and can create a plan to be more diligent and willing as you recover again.
#3. One Day at a Time
Remember that we do recover one day at a time. Stay in the moment, and ask for what you need. If you return to a rehabilitation facility, be open to the help and programs they provide you.
Recovering from a relapse outside of rehab can mean you need to surround yourself with friends and attend more meetings than before. No one is expecting you to resume your life with joy and excitement immediately.
It can take time to find balance and peace once again. The most important thing is to take steps every day to get better. Find a new sponsor. Read some of your program’s literature.
Call a friend in recovery once a day, and let them help you. Attend at least one meeting. Every single day represents a new reprieve, another change to survive our addiction.
You only need to focus on the next 24 hours. Be proud of yourself every day you wake up sober. It isn’t always easy, but it is absolutely worth it.
You are worth it.
If you have relapsed and are not sure how to get back on track for recovery, you are not alone. The Guest House Ocala has over 12 years of experience and can help you find your sobriety again. You deserve a happy and healthy life!
Call us today at 855-372-1079.