Research shows that over 90% of alcoholics will have at least one relapse over the next four years following treatment. Relapse prevention is a very complex procedure and may not always be successful. Alcoholism Relapse occurs when the alcoholic craves alcohol after being sober for some time. Even after years of treatment the possibility of a relapse does not vanish.
The symptoms of a relapse can be easily seen in the recovering alcoholic. These are cues which should be picked up by the family members before the person indulges in alcohol again. Some of the cues are:
- Denial: Every alcoholic goes through a phase of denial where they deny that they have an alcohol problem. The same happens after treatment. The alcoholic may fail to realize that there still is a problem. They will start believing that their addiction was not that bad. They enter into a blame game and start blaming everyone except the substance for their present condition. This is a vital clue to determine if the person is going towards the path of relapse
- Discontinuation of post-recovery treatment: The denial mode of a recovering person can lead to discontinuation of post-recovery treatment. The post-recovery treatment is designed to give strength to the addicted person to stay clean. Studies show that a strong network of post-recovery assistance reduces the chances of a relapse. The continuation of counseling sessions and medication can lead to a relapse. As a family member you should take care if your loved one is attending sessions regularly and taking proper medication to avoid a relapse.
- Behavioral changes: Abstaining from the use of alcohol can have far-reaching physical and mental changes. However the most prominent change is in the behavior of the addicted person. The drive to stay sober increases their confidence in themselves and helps them recover. However if the alcoholic is becoming angered easily and enters into a mode of self-pity then these changes can lead to a relapse. Our expectations are directly related to anger and frustration. Whenever the addicted person feels that the world is not going their way they will slip into self-pity and tread the path of alcoholism again.
- Tendency towards loneliness: An important part of treatment is the re-integration of the alcoholic with society. No treatment is done in isolation. The group counseling sessions are designed to help the person share their thoughts and problems with everyone. The purpose is to enhance the communication skills of the person. However if you see your loved one slipping into loneliness and isolation again then there is definitely something wrong. Addiction feeds on loneliness and isolation. They are the best booster for Alcoholism Relapse.
