Misconceptions About Relapse in Alcohol Recovery

Tagged with: relapse

Sadly, many people expect relapse to be an inevitable result of alcohol treatment programs in the U.S. It is unfortunately true that the vast majority of those who begin inpatient treatment programs relapse within five years of their treatment. If you can differentiate between the truth and myths of drug and alcohol relapse, you will be better equipped to stand strong after you’ve completed your treatment.

Misconceptions About Relapse in Alcohol Recovery

There are many misconceptions about alcohol relapse in circulation—even operating within the addiction treatment industry itself. Here are a few major misconceptions regarding alcohol relapse in dependent individuals.

Relapse Is Essential to the Recovery Process.
This falsehood has in part been spread by the alcohol treatment industry. Relapse is not an expected or inevitable part of the recovery process. True recovery will free you from your dependency on alcohol—it will not cycle you back through your alcohol dependency.
Relapse Is a Natural Process.
You are already equipped for success—you only need your natural body and mind. Your dependency on alcohol was the furthest thing from a natural process—and relapse is equally unnatural for the body. Relapse sometimes occurs as a result of emotional trauma or chemical imbalances, but is ultimately a surefire sign that the base cause for your dependency was not effectively addressed.
The Weak Are the Ones Who Relapse.
Oftentimes, people who relapse lack the necessary tools and treatment that they need to effectively recover. They do not, however, usually lack the desire to be sober. Ineffective treatment methods are often responsible for relapse, rather than an individual’s lack of personal strength.
Relapse Happens If You Miss Meetings.
Consistent attendance at 12-step meetings does not guarantee your sobriety. Some people are able to maintain complete sobriety without regularly attending meetings. If you are regularly missing meetings, it may be an indication that relapse has started to happen—however, it is not the cause for the relapse.
Other Forms of Dependency Are Not Relapse.
Some people slip into the trap of switching out alcohol for another form of chemical dependency. Regardless of the substance that caused you to seek treatment, any chemical dependency indicates a relapse. The fact that you have a chemical dependency at all is a sign that your root issue has not been addressed.
Relapse Is an Active Decision.
Oftentimes, when relapse occurs, denial comes with it. Ignoring, deflecting, or shrinking away from acknowledging relapse can be subconscious in nature.
Relapse Is Only Over Once You’ve Reached Extreme Lows.
While some people travel to “rock bottom” before seeking recovery, some individuals recognize their relapse far before things get too dire. Many dependent people see that their past recovery efforts have not been successful and search for new help in achieving sobriety.