A relapse from recovery of drugs and/or alcohol can be devastating for loved ones. You have no control, you can’t fix it, and you feel utterly hopeless. It doesn’t matter if they are remorseful or not, your heart is still broken. How can they keep relapsing time after time knowing that they are hurting themselves and their family? This is a very normal thought when it comes to relapse, but this may help better explain why they relapse in the first place and what you can do to help not only them, but you.
Understanding Relapse
Two things really keep an addict and/or alcohol clean and sober. One is a solution outside of addiction and the other is their willingness to apply action towards that solution. If one is not utilized along with the other, relapse will most likely take place. So, you may be wondering what the solution is? That is exactly what we are about to explain now.
The Solution
There are a few phases of recovery that an addict/alcoholic can go through in order to treat addiction. One is the discovery phase. This phase is usually obtained in treatment. It is a safe place where they can learn about the disease of addiction, learn coping tools, heal from past trauma through therapy, and apply what they have learned to their new life in recovery. If they leave too early, it may actually sabotage their chances. If they are not willing to put in the hard work and dedication it takes into their recovery, they will also not be able to stay clean and sober. It really is ultimately up to the addict/alcoholic if they want to recover. No person, place, or thing can fix them without their true willingness to do the work and take the action.
So if treatment is the discovery phase, then what is the real solution after treatment in order for them to stay clean and sober? From our experience, 12-step fellowships have been the most successful form of long-term assistance in alcoholics and addicts staying sober. Those we have found who have been able to achieve lifelong recovery have also included the 12 Steps and meetings into their life. It really is that simple. Again though, it is up to them to do the work in the rooms as well. They cannot or will not stay sober if they are not thoroughly working a program of recovery and applying the steps in their lives.
If you would like to learn more about AA or NA, please feel free to check out the links below. The more you know the better chance you have at not being manipulated by your loved ones disease.
Alcoholics Anonymous
Narcotics Anonymous
What Can I Do In The Meantime?
You may also be wondering what you can do in order to help heal and recover from their disease. We suggest attending programs like Al-Anon (sister program to AA) or Nar-Anon (sister program to NA). These programs are wonderful for loved ones of an alcoholic or addict. This is a place where you can get guidance and support.
Support Groups For Family
In addition, our Alumni Department is always willing to be a listening ear while offering support and help. We want you to know that you are not alone and that we are always here for you.
The Watershed Alumni Department Family Support Line: 877-975-4837
Their Addiction Is Not Your Fault
Their addiction is not your fault, so it is time to stop blaming yourself and take action into your own healing and recovery. The healthier you are, the better you will be able to help and assist your loved one. If you would like to talk to someone now to get help for you loved one, please click here: Addiction Chat Line. We understand what addiction can do and we want to let you know you are not alone and we are here for you.
Read 3719 times Last modified on Monday, 10 July 2017 17:14
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Published in Relapse
Tagged under
relapse
relapse prevention
relapse warning signs
The Watershed
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