Watching a loved one relapse with their drug addiction is painful. It can even challenge the resolve of the most devoted support system. The news of the relapse of your loved one can cause all kinds of emotions from frustration, anger, disappointment, sadness, and hopelessness, to fear. There are many valid responses to this situation.
You can support your loved one going through addiction treatment only when you have stable emotions and a stable mindset. In that case, it becomes necessary for you to look after yourself and take proper care of yourself and the patient.
It is essential to understand the nature of addiction to interpret why your loved one has to face the relapse. It is also crucial to avoid the pit of apathy or compassion fatigue.
Substances such as alcohol or cocaine can change the crucial area of the brain necessary to control life-sustaining functions. These brain areas drive obsessional substance use to stop addiction. Addiction is a disease that is persistent and manipulates the brain. A relapse is possible, just like any other chronic illness like hypertension or asthma, if you cease the medical treatment plan.
In this article, you will read about the meaning behind relapse and what to do when it happens.
What does relapse mean?
Relapse has nothing to do with a person’s willpower and morals. Everything about reoccurrence has to do with brain chemistry. The only thing you can do is, complete your treatment in drug addiction rehab in La Mesa, CA. Genesis Recovery offers a long-term, well-designed, zero-tolerance recovery program for addictive patients. The recovery program of Genesis Recovery fosters lasting recovery and spiritual growth of the individual from alcohol and problematic drugs.
Studies show that 85% of people experience recurrence within a year. It does not mean the treatment was futile, but it is part of recovery. Relapse is not a failure. It signifies a need for modification, recommences, or new treatment. It can make things chaotic, but it can also make it easier for you to find a practical solution for the patient and yourself.
Reevaluation of the treatment plan
Reevaluation of the treatment plan is one of the practical solutions for reoccurrence. You may feel the topic of treatment is a bit sensitive because of relapse, but it is also necessary to talk about it with them. Talking about treatment can help them understand that it is crucial to receive treatment for the well-being of everyone.
Carrying the responsibility of supporting and persuading the patient can exhaust anyone. You must take care of yourself beyond taking care of your loved one going through addiction treatment. In this case, you need to come up with a self-care routine.
Your self-care routine should include –
- Healthy nutrition
- Proper sleep
- Relaxing
- Physical activities
- Socializing
Your self-care routine will help you regulate your emotions and nervous system. It will also help you bring back the feeling of control over the situation. That is what you need to face the reality of relapse of your loved one and handle any emergency and overdose.
