Relapse is the return of symptoms of a mental health condition or substance use disorder after a period of improvement. People experience a relapse when recovering from a mental health or substance use disorder. It can take many forms and include old behaviors and thoughts.
Meanwhile, people recovering from alcohol addiction may also experience relapse. However, it does not happen suddenly. Instead, the reaction results from stimuli that trigger their response to drinking again. But which reasons may be triggering alcohol relapse?
Parents play a huge role in a person’s life and can significantly affect an individual’s relapse. If an individual’s parents are heavy drinkers, staying sober can be challenging when exposed to their environment. Similarly, parents who do not provide enough support or are unsupportive of their child’s sobriety can also trigger a relapse.
Parents can also trigger a relapse if they are not supportive of their child’s sobriety. Suppose a parent does not provide enough emotional support or understand the importance of sobriety. In that case, it can lead to guilt and shame in the child, causing them to turn to alcohol as a form of self-medication, which can lead to relapse.
2. Children
Children can also be a trigger for relapse. If a parent is struggling with sobriety, their children may not understand why they can’t drink or must be so careful, leading to resentment and frustration, which can trigger a relapse.
Additionally, if a parent cannot be present for their child due to their sobriety, it can cause them to feel neglected and unloved. Lack of support can be a significant trigger for relapse, as the parent seeks comfort from alcohol or other substances.
3. Co-Workers
Co-workers can also be a trigger for relapse. A person in recovery may have to deal with difficult co-workers who are not supportive of their sobriety, leading to stress, which can be a significant trigger for relapse. Additionally, co-workers may be engaging in drinking or drug use, which can be very tempting for someone in recovery.
When it comes to co-workers, it’s essential to recognize that they may not be aware of your sobriety or that you are in recovery. It’s necessary to be honest with them about your situation and make sure they know your boundaries. If you need to, you can ask them to respect your sobriety and not engage in drinking or drug use in front of you.
4. Boss
Your boss can also be a trigger for relapse. If your boss is overbearing or unsupportive of your recovery, it can be very stressful and lead to relapse. It’s important to remember that your boss likely doesn’t understand the struggles you are facing and may not be aware of your sobriety.
It’s essential, to be honest with your boss about your sobriety and let them know that you need their support. If your boss is unsupportive, it’s necessary to find a way to cope with the stress healthily and get help from a therapist or support group if needed.
5. People in Bars
Going to bars and clubs can be a significant trigger for relapse, as they are often associated with drinking and partying. It can be challenging to be around people who are drinking, especially if you are in early recovery.
If you find yourself in a bar or club, it’s important to remember to stay focused on your sobriety and avoid any situations that could lead to relapse. It’s also essential to have a plan in place for how to handle any urges or cravings that may arise.
Conclusion
Triggering situations can be challenging, but staying sober and avoiding relapse is possible with the right tools and support. It’s essential to recognize your triggers and have a plan in place for how to handle them. You must also reach out for help if you’re struggling with sobriety. With the proper support, you can stay sober and achieve lasting recovery.
American Addiction Institute of Mind & Medicine is a drug rehab in Orange County that assists patients in getting addiction treatment. As an American addiction center, we aim to provide as much help as possible to ensure recovering patients get the best medical help they need on their journey to recovery. Visit our website and inquire about our services today.