What Are the Different Stages of Relapse?

What Are the Different Stages of Relapse

What Are the Different Stages of Relapse?

Reviewed by: A Medical Professional
What Are the Different Stages of Relapse
5 min read . 7 sections

Relapse is a common part of the addiction recovery process, but contrary to common perception, it doesn’t happen all at once. Instead, relapse is a process occurring in distinct stages over time. Understanding these stages can end up being the key to preventing a full-blown return to substance use.

Often, relapse starts with subtle mental or emotional shifts before progressing to physical relapse.

Recognizing early warning signs—like changes in mood, thinking patterns or behaviors—can help individuals intervene early and prevent a downward spiral.

By understanding the stages of relapse, you can take proactive steps to tackle underlying issues before they escalate and implement prevention strategies.

What is Relapse, and Why Does It Happen?

Relapse is a term referring to a return to substance use after a period of sobriety. While it’s a setback, it’s also a common part of recovery. Many people in recovery experience relapse at some point, but with the right tools and awareness, it can be prevented or managed effectively.

A big takeaway here is that relapse isn’t a single event. It occurs in stages of relapse, starting with emotional or mental changes long before the physical act of using substances. Recognizing these stages early on can help individuals take action to stop the process before it leads to a full relapse.

By viewing relapse as a process rather than an isolated event, individuals can better equip themselves to handle the challenges that come with maintaining sobriety.

Some of the things that can contribute to a relapse include:

  • Unresolved negative emotions or mental health issues.
  • Disconnecting from support systems.
  • Not having healthy outlets or coping skills for managing stress and cravings.
  • Being around people, places or situations linked to past substance use.
  • Overconfidence and the belief you can handle risky situations.
  • Not taking care of your health in terms of sleep, diet and physical activity.
  • Losing touch with recovery routines and accountability.

The Three Different Stages of Relapse

Relapse is a process that unfolds over time, typically in three primary stages. Understanding the different stages of relapse helps with taking early action. These stages include:

  • Emotional relapse: The emotional and mental relapse stage starts with emotional changes like anxiety, isolation or mood swings. Although there may not be active thoughts about substance use, emotions and behaviors during this time set the groundwork for possible relapse.
  • Mental relapse: In the mental stage, a person may start actively thinking about using again. Cravings can arise, and they might start to romanticize past substance use or engage in internal bargaining.
  • Physical relapse: During this final stage, a person physically returns to substance use. By the time this stage is reached, the emotional and mental warning signs have likely gone unchecked.

Relapse typically will start with emotional and mental shifts long before the physical act of using occurs.

Stage 1: Emotional Relapse

The emotional relapse stage occurs when emotions and behaviors start laying the foundation for potential relapse, even if the person isn’t consciously thinking about using substances. During this stage, unresolved emotions and harmful behaviors can create a slippery slope leading toward relapse.

Common signs of emotional relapse include:

  • Withdrawing from friends, family or support groups.
  • Skipping therapy sessions or 12-step programs.
  • Ignoring or suppressing feelings of anxiety, sadness or frustration instead of addressing them in healthy ways.
  • Neglecting physical or emotional well-being or having poor self-care.

Stage 2: Mental Relapse

During a mental relapse, individuals start thinking about using substances again even though they haven’t taken physical steps toward doing so. This point in the stages of relapse can mean that thoughts and cravings intensify if they aren’t dealt with and managed.

Signs of mental relapse include:

  • Intense cravings and urges to use substances start surfacing.
  • A person may start thinking fondly about past substance use, remembering the “good times,” and ignoring the consequences.
  • Internal justifications like “just one drink won’t hurt” start emerging.

Stage 3: Physical Relapse

Physical relapse is the last stage in the stages of relapse, where a person returns to substance abuse. At this point, the mental and emotional stages have progressed, leading to the physical act of using drugs or alcohol.

If you find yourself entering the physical relapse stage, acting quickly is essential.

Seeking help, whether by contacting a sponsor, counseling or treatment center, can minimize the damage and get you back on track before the situation worsens.

How to Recognize the Stages and Prevent Relapse

Recognizing the stages of relapse early is key to preventing a full relapse. There are practical steps to become more aware of early signs, stopping the process before it escalates:

  • Mindfulness: This helps you stay aware of your thoughts and emotions. By regularly checking in with yourself, you can recognize emotional shifts or negative thinking that signal the beginning of the different stages of relapse.
  • Attending therapy or support groups: Regularly attending therapy sessions or 12-step meetings keeps you connected to recovery goals, provides ongoing support, and helps you catch emotional or mental warning signs early.
  • Staying connected to a support system: Surrounding yourself with supportive friends, family, or recovery peers can provide accountability and encouragement. If they notice behavioral or mindset changes, they can help you course correct.

When you notice you’re in the early stages of relapse, you have to take action immediately.

How The Best Treatment Can Help

At The Best Treatment, we provide personalized care and support for individuals at all stages of relapse and recovery. Whether you’re experiencing an emotional, mental or physical relapse, our team can help you regain control and get back on track.

We offer a range of tailored treatment program options, including individual and group therapy and relapse prevention planning.

These therapies help you identify triggers, build healthy coping strategies and develop a comprehensive plan to prevent future relapse. Our team works with you every step of the way to ensure you have the tools and support needed to maintain long-term sobriety.

If you’re struggling with the different stages of relapse in your recovery or need additional support, reach out to us today. We’re here to help you overcome challenges and continue on your path to a healthier, sober life.

References:

  1. Science Direct: Determinants and prevalence of relapse among patients with substance use disorder in a rural population: A retrospective observational study
  2. National Institute of Health (NIH): Addiction Relapse Prevention

Medically Reviewed: September 25, 2019

Dr Ashley

Medical Reviewer

Chief Editor

About

All of the information on this page has been reviewed and verified by a certified addiction professional.

Dr Ashley Murray obtained her MBBCh Cum Laude in 2016. She currently practices in the public domain in South Africa. She has an interest in medical writing and has a keen interest in evidence-based medicine.


All of the information on this page has been reviewed and verified by a certified addiction professional.

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