Our Addiction Resources

Relapsing during the journey of addiction recovery can be a disheartening experience, both for the person struggling with addiction and their loved ones. It’s important to understand that the relapse cycle is often part of the recovery process.

While some people manage to achieve long-term recovery after initial treatment for substance use disorders, others find themselves going through the stages of relapse multiple times before they can maintain lasting recovery. Knowing why this happens can help demystify the process and offer hope and encouragement to those affected.

What Is Relapse?

Relapse refers to the return to substance use after a period of abstinence. It’s a common occurrence in the cycle of addiction. Studies suggest that 40-60% of people recovering from addiction will relapse at least once. For some, this is a temporary setback, while for others, it becomes a recurring pattern.¹

Repeated relapse can be frustrating and demoralizing. It may seem like a sign of failure, but it’s important to view it as a part of the recovery journey rather than an endpoint. Each relapse can offer valuable lessons and insights that contribute to eventual long-term sobriety.

6 Possible Causes of Repeated Relapse

Relapse from substance abuse can be influenced by a variety of factors, ranging from unaddressed underlying issues to environmental triggers.

By examining these causes, we can better understand the challenges faced by those struggling with repeated relapse and find more effective ways to support loved ones on their journey to lasting sobriety. Here are some of the most common reasons for repeated relapse:

1. Unaddressed Underlying Issues

Often, alcohol or drug addiction is a symptom of deeper underlying issues such as trauma, mental health disorders, or chronic stress. These issues can create a persistent emotional and psychological environment where substance use becomes a coping mechanism.

If these underlying issues remain unaddressed, the risk of relapse increases significantly. Comprehensive treatment plans that include therapy for these conditions can be crucial. For instance, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help individuals recognize and change negative thought patterns that contribute to substance use.

2. Environmental Triggers

Being in environments where drug or alcohol use is prevalent or encountering people who encourage substance use can trigger cravings and relapse. These triggers can be physical places, like bars or certain neighborhoods, or social interactions with people who use substances.

Managing these triggers often requires significant lifestyle changes. This may involve avoiding certain social circles, finding new hobbies, or even relocating to a different area. Developing a strong plan to manage and avoid these triggers is essential for maintaining sobriety.

3. Lack of Coping Skills

Life inevitably includes stress, anxiety, and other negative emotions. Without effective coping strategies, individuals may turn to substances as a way to cope. Learning and practicing healthy coping mechanisms through therapy can help reduce the risk of relapse.

Techniques such as mindfulness, stress management strategies, and emotional regulation skills can be highly beneficial. Engaging in regular physical activity, practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation, and seeking support through counseling can all be part of building a robust set of coping skills.

4. Inadequate Support Systems

Support from family, friends, and support groups plays a significant role in recovery. Without a strong support system, individuals may feel lonely and more likely to relapse. Emotional support and accountability can make a significant difference.

Engaging in community support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) can provide crucial encouragement and a sense of belonging. Additionally, family therapy sessions can help rebuild trust and establish a supportive home environment.

5. Overconfidence

Some people may become overconfident in their ability to resist substances after a period of sobriety. This can lead to risky behaviors, such as socializing in environments where substance use is common.

Overconfidence can create a false sense of security, leading individuals to believe they can handle exposure to triggers without relapsing. Maintaining a humble and cautious approach to recovery is important. Regularly attending support meetings and continually working on one’s relapse prevention plan can help keep overconfidence in check.

6. Biological Factors

Genetic predispositions and changes in brain chemistry due to prolonged substance use can put some individuals at a higher risk of relapse. Addiction can alter the brain’s reward and stress systems, making it more difficult to resist cravings.

Understanding these biological factors can help tailor more effective, personalized treatment plans. Medications like buprenorphine, naltrexone, suboxone, and methadone can be part of a comprehensive treatment plan, helping to manage cravings and stabilize brain chemistry.

The Emotional Impact of Repeated Relapse

Experiencing repeated relapses can lead to feelings of shame, hopelessness, and frustration. It’s common for individuals to question their ability to achieve lasting recovery. Loved ones may also feel helpless and discouraged.

Recognizing these emotional impacts and addressing them through counseling and support groups is crucial. Rebuilding self-esteem and finding hope again is an essential part of the recovery process.

The stigma surrounding relapse can exacerbate these negative emotions, making individuals feel isolated and judged. This isolation can create a vicious cycle where the person struggling with addiction turns to substances to cope with their feelings of shame and despair.

It’s important for both the individual and their support network to approach relapse with compassion and understanding. Open communication, reassurance, and professional support can help break this cycle, allowing the person to regain confidence and stay committed to their recovery journey.

Stay Hopeful and Avoid Relapse With Lumina Recovery

If you or a loved one are struggling with repeated relapses, it’s important to remember that you are not alone and that relapse does not mean failure. Each setback is an opportunity to learn more about the addiction and to refine the approach to recovery.

Feeling hopeless and frustrated is natural, but remember that recovery is a journey. Every step, including the setbacks, brings you closer to lasting sobriety. Stay encouraged, seek help, and believe in the possibility of a brighter, healthier future.

Lumina Recovery offers holistic addiction treatment services for a wide array of drug types, providing personalized care tailored to each individual’s unique needs.

Reach out for support and take the next step towards a healthier, sober life.

Sources:

1. https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/addiction-what-to-know-about-relapse

Postpartum depression is a serious condition that affects many new mothers, often leaving them feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and disconnected from their baby.

When combined with the pressures and responsibilities of motherhood, this mental health challenge can sometimes lead to substance use disorders as a means of coping.

Understanding the relationship between postpartum depression and addiction is crucial for recognizing the signs and seeking the appropriate help for oneself or a loved one.

What Is Postpartum Depression?

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a type of depression that occurs after childbirth. Unlike when women experience “baby blues,” which typically resolve within a few days, symptoms of postpartum depression include more severe and long-lasting challenges.

Mothers with postpartum depression symptoms can face intense sadness, fatigue, irritability, anxiety, and trouble bonding with the baby. It affects not only the mother but also the overall well-being of the family.¹

The Relationship Between Postpartum Depression and Addiction

The relationship between postpartum depression and addiction is complex. Pregnant women have intense emotional and physical demands, coupled with hormonal changes, that can lead to feelings of isolation and despair.

Some mothers, especially women with a history of substance abuse, may turn to alcohol, prescription medications, or illicit drugs to self-medicate their overwhelming emotions and physical exhaustion.

These substances can provide temporary relief in the postpartum period but often result in a cycle of dependency, further complicating their mental health and overall well-being.

The stigma and shame associated with co-occurring postpartum depression and addiction can prevent mothers from seeking help, exacerbating their struggles. Understanding this connection is necessary for recognizing the signs and encouraging mothers to seek the professional support they need.

Drugs Commonly Abused by Those Suffering From Postpartum Depression

Mothers who experience postpartum depression may abuse a variety of substances in an attempt to manage their symptoms:²

• Alcohol abuse in women, often used for its sedative effects, can temporarily numb emotional pain but ultimately exacerbate depression. It is widely accessible and socially acceptable, making it a common choice for self-medication. Mothers might consume or binge drink alcohol to relax or unwind after a stressful day, but over time, this can lead to dependence and increased depressive symptoms.
• Some mothers may misuse prescription drugs like benzodiazepines or opioids, seeking relief from anxiety or physical discomfort. Benzodiazepines, prescribed for anxiety or sleep disorders, can be habit-forming and lead to dependence if not used as directed. Opioids, often prescribed for pain relief, can also be misused to escape emotional pain, leading to addiction.
• Illicit drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, and methamphetamine might be used to escape reality or boost energy levels. Marijuana is sometimes perceived as a way to relax or reduce anxiety, but it can also impair cognitive function and exacerbate depressive symptoms. Cocaine and methamphetamine addictions can temporarily increase energy and mood but come with severe health risks and a high potential for addiction.

Why Some Mothers Self-Medicate

The reasons why some mothers self-medicate during postpartum depression can vary:

Desperation for relief. The intense emotional and physical symptoms of PPD can drive mothers to seek immediate relief through substances. The overwhelming nature of postpartum depression often leaves mothers feeling like they have no other options. The immediate, albeit temporary, relief that substances provide can be very appealing when facing constant emotional pain and exhaustion.

Stigma and shame. Fear of judgment or stigmatization may prevent mothers from seeking professional help, leading them to self-medicate instead. Society often places unrealistic expectations on new mothers, expecting them to be perfectly happy and competent. This can create a sense of shame for those experiencing PPD, making them reluctant to reach out for help and instead turn to substances in secrecy.

Lack of support. Without a strong support system, mothers may feel isolated and overwhelmed, increasing the temptation to use substances as a coping mechanism. Many mothers do not have access to a network of family and friends who can offer emotional and practical support. This isolation can intensify feelings of depression and anxiety, driving them to seek solace in substances.

5 Reasons for Mothers to Seek Help

Recognizing the signs of postpartum depression and addiction is the first step toward recovery. Seeking help is crucial for several reasons:

1. Health and Safety: Both PPD and substance abuse can have serious health implications for the mother and her child. Professional help ensures that both receive the care they need. Untreated PPD can lead to long-term mental health issues, and substance abuse can result in addiction, health problems, and impaired ability to care for the child.
2. Breaking the Cycle: Without staging an intervention, the cycle of addiction and depression can continue, affecting the mother’s ability to care for her child and herself. Addiction and depression often feed into each other, creating a vicious cycle. Treatment can offer strategies and different forms of therapy to help mothers manage their depression without resorting to substance abuse. This can ultimately lead to a healthier and more stable lifestyle.
3. Building a Support System: Treatment provides access to support groups, therapy, and medical care, helping mothers build a network of support and develop healthy coping strategies. Support groups can offer a sense of community and understanding, reducing feelings of isolation. Therapy can provide tools and techniques to manage depression and prevent relapse into substance abuse.
4. Mother and Child Bonding: Seeking help can improve the mother’s mental health, allowing her to better bond with and care for her baby. The early months of a child’s life are crucial for bonding and development. A mother who is struggling with PPD and addiction may find it challenging to connect with her baby. Treatment can help mothers overcome these challenges, fostering a stronger, healthier relationship with their child.
5. Long-Term Well-Being: Addressing both PPD and addiction early can lead to better long-term outcomes for the mother and her family. Early intervention can prevent the progression of both conditions, reducing the risk of long-term mental health issues and substance dependency. This proactive approach can lead to a more fulfilling and balanced life for the mother, positively impacting her entire family.

Get Support for Postpartum Depression and Addiction With Lumina Recovery

Postpartum depression and addiction are serious, interlinked issues that require understanding and compassionate intervention. Recognizing the symptoms, understanding the reasons behind self-medication, and seeking professional help can help mothers find the support they need to heal and thrive.

Lumina Recovery offers dual diagnosis services, addressing both depression and various addiction types, to provide holistic and effective treatment for individuals facing these intertwined challenges.

Don’t wait to seek the help you deserve—connect with our team of specialists for a healthier future for you and your baby.

Sources:

1. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/postpartum-depression/symptoms-causes/syc-20376617
2. https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/72/wr/mm7216a1.htm

For many years, addiction was talked about as if it were just a character flaw, a selfish personal choice, or the result of a life of sin. Instead of showing compassion and acknowledging the reasons people became addicted to drugs or alcohol, public messaging portrayed addicted persons as delinquents, bad influences, and worse. This stigmatizing language reinforced negative stereotypes and created barriers to seeking help for a long time, causing many to feel shame and isolation.

Only in the last few decades has society started to really talk about addiction as a disease. This shift in perspective is crucial, as it highlights the importance of understanding and treating addiction with empathy and medical support. The misconceptions of the past are still present, but by changing the language of addiction to be more compassionate and person-first, we can help break down these barriers and provide the support needed for recovery.

The Positive Impacts of Language

Language has the power to heal and inspire. When used correctly, it can encourage individuals on their recovery journey and foster a supportive environment.

Encouragement and Empowerment

Using positive, non-stigmatizing language for addiction helps to empower individuals. Referring to someone as a “person with a substance use disorder” rather than an “addict” emphasizes their humanity and dignity. This shift in terminology acknowledges that addiction is a condition that can be treated, rather than a moral failing.

Reducing Stigma

Adopting person-first language in addiction conversations reduces stigma. Stigmatizing language can lead to shame and discourage people from seeking help. By choosing words that focus on the person rather than the condition, we can help break down these barriers. For instance, speaking about someone as “experiencing addiction” instead of using casual insults like  “druggie” or “drunk” can make a significant difference in how individuals perceive themselves and are perceived by others.

This is important even when it’s “just between friends” and you don’t think anyone will hear you. If someone is hiding their substance use and hears how you lack compassion in private, they may never reach out to you for help.

Promoting Recovery

Positive language promotes recovery by fostering hope and resilience. Words that convey support, such as “recovery,” “treatment,” and “healing,” reinforce the possibility of change and improvement. Encouraging phrases like “working toward recovery” can inspire individuals to keep moving forward.

The Negative Impacts of Language

On the other end of the spectrum, the wrong choice of words can have detrimental effects on those battling addiction. Addiction language stigma can reinforce negative stereotypes and hinder recovery efforts.

Reinforcing Negative Stereotypes

Stigmatizing terms such as “addict” or “abuser” reinforce negative stereotypes about people with substance use disorders. These labels reduce individuals to their condition, ignoring their complexity and humanity. Such language can perpetuate harmful myths about addiction, making it harder for those affected to seek and receive help.

Creating Barriers to Treatment

Negative language can create barriers to treatment. When people feel judged or shamed, they are less likely to seek help. Words that imply moral failure or lack of willpower, like “dirty” or “clean” to describe drug test results, contribute to this problem. Instead, using terms like “positive” or “negative” test results can help eliminate judgment and encourage treatment.

Impacting Self-Esteem

The language used to describe addiction can significantly impact an individual’s self-esteem. Words that carry negative connotations can lead to feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness. This can exacerbate the condition and make recovery more difficult. It is crucial to use language that affirms the individual’s worth and potential for recovery.

How to Use Positive Communication

Effective communication about addiction requires a conscious effort to choose words that support and uplift. Here are six simple ways you can make sure you communicate positively about addiction.

1. Focus on the Person, Not the Condition

Always use person-first language in addiction conversations to emphasize the individual rather than their condition. Instead of “addict,” say “person with a substance use disorder.” This approach recognizes that the person is more than their addiction.

2. Avoid Stigmatizing Terms

Avoid using terms that carry negative connotations or imply moral judgment. Words like “junkie,” “abuser,” and “clean” vs. “dirty” should be replaced with more neutral and respectful language. For example, say “person with substance use disorder” or “person in recovery.”

3. Use Supportive and Encouraging Language

Use language that supports and encourages recovery. Words like “treatment,” “recovery,” and “healing” promote a positive outlook. Encourage them with phrases like “working towards recovery.” This fosters hope and resilience.

4. Educate and Advocate

Educate others about the importance of language in addiction. Advocate for the use of non-stigmatizing language in all settings, from personal conversations to public discourse. Share resources and information that highlight the benefits of compassionate communication.

5. Show Empathy, Not Pity

When speaking to a loved one in recovery, it’s essential to show empathy rather than pity. Empathy involves understanding and sharing the feelings of another, whereas pity can feel condescending and unhelpful. Use language that validates their experiences and efforts, offering support without judgment. Statements like “I’m here for you” and “I believe in your strength” can be very powerful.

6. Practice Self-Respect

If you’re the one in recovery, it’s also important to use these strategies with yourself, too. It can be easy to speak positively about others while being hard on yourself, but it’s crucial to build self-esteem and end negative self-talk. Acknowledge your efforts and progress without harsh self-criticism. Speak to yourself as you would to a friend, with kindness and understanding. This kind of self-compassion is essential for a successful recovery journey.

Find Compassionate, Person-First Treatment at Lumina Recovery

At Lumina Recovery, we understand the profound impact that words can have on the recovery journey. Our approach emphasizes compassion, dignity, and respect, and we always speak about addiction recovery in positive, healthy ways. We offer a variety of specialized treatment programs to address the unique needs of each individual, fostering a supportive and healing environment that’s free from addiction language stigma and unnecessary judgment.

Our commitment to person-first language, custom treatment plans, professional therapy, and other evidence-based practices ensures that each client receives the highest standard of care. We believe in the power of positive communication and encouragement to support recovery and promote long-term well-being.

If you or a loved one needs help to overcome an addiction, contact us today. Our compassionate team of addiction specialists is here to help you on your path to recovery.

Addiction is surrounded by numerous misconceptions and myths that can create barriers to effective support. These false beliefs contribute to stigma and may prevent many from seeking the help they need.

Below, we’ll be debunking some of the most prevalent myths about addiction to focus on a more accurate and compassionate perspective on substance use disorders. By dispelling these misconceptions, we can encourage a more supportive approach to addiction treatment and recovery.

Myth 1: Addiction is a choice.

The assumption that addiction is a simple choice is unscientific and unfounded. Social context, stress, and trauma, along with genetic predisposition and mental health disorders, can play crucial roles in the development of addiction, making it far more complex than a mere decision.

For example, numerous studies have shown a strong correlation between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and the likelihood of developing substance use disorders. Childhood trauma is not a choice, and addiction can often be an attempt to soothe this pain. Traumatic experiences can alter brain physiology, predisposing individuals to addictive behaviors.¹

Myth 2: Prescription drugs are non-addictive.

The notion that prescription drugs are inherently non-addictive is misleading. Many types of prescription medications, including anti-anxiety medications (anxiolytics), pain medications (opioids), antidepressants, stimulants, and depressants, carry significant risks of addiction and dependence.

For example, opioid painkillers, often prescribed for chronic pain, have a high potential for addiction. The misuse of these drugs has led to a widespread opioid epidemic. Similarly, anxiolytics like benzodiazepines are effective for short-term anxiety relief but can be highly addictive if used long-term.

Antidepressant use has surged in recent years, and while they are not typically considered addictive in the traditional sense, discontinuing them can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms. Stimulants, often prescribed for ADHD, can be addictive and are sometimes misused for their euphoric effects. Depressants, such as barbiturates and sleep medications, also carry a risk of dependence and addiction.

The brain adapts to the presence of these medications, leading to physical dependence. When the drugs are no longer available, withdrawal symptoms can occur, sometimes severe and potentially life-threatening. Gradual tapering under medical supervision is crucial to mitigate these risks.

Myth 3: Addiction is mainly a physical disorder.

While physical dependence is a component of addiction, it extends far beyond the purely physical. Cravings, triggers, and coping mechanisms stem from thoughts, emotions, and learned behaviors. Social factors like loneliness, trauma, and peer pressure also play significant roles in substance misuse. Many individuals struggling with addiction also face co-occurring mental health disorders such as depression or anxiety.

Effective treatment of addiction needs a comprehensive approach that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects.

Myth 4: Addiction only affects certain types of people.

Stereotypes and misconceptions about addiction can create a false sense of security, leading people to believe that only certain individuals are vulnerable. The truth is that addiction knows no boundaries—it can affect anyone, regardless of age, race, or socioeconomic status. The opioid epidemic in America has starkly shown that no one is immune, regardless of their background.

Acknowledging this truth enables us to prioritize prevention, early intervention, and accessible treatment for everyone.

Myth 5: Addiction and mental health issues are separate and unrelated problems.

Several studies have demonstrated that individuals with mental illness are approximately twice as likely to develop a substance abuse disorder. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, although mental illness does not always result in drug or alcohol abuse, there are significant connections between substance use, addiction, and mental health conditions.²

This co-occurrence of disorders is referred to as “dual diagnosis,” where both conditions are present concurrently.

Myth 6: You can just quit drugs or alcohol if you have enough willpower.

Most people who rely solely on willpower to stop using substances will fail at some point. Alcohol and drugs can profoundly alter the brain’s natural reward pathways. The belief that individuals can quit whenever they want overlooks these complex chemical changes, which erode self-control while sending intense impulses to use drugs.

Maintaining sobriety requires more than willpower—it involves intensive treatment, ongoing self-work, and sometimes medications to prevent relapse​.

Myth 7: If you completely detox from a substance, you’re no longer addicted.

Detoxification is a crucial first step in addiction treatment, but it is not a cure. Addiction encompasses complex psychological, emotional, and behavioral aspects that detox alone cannot address. Sustained recovery necessitates ongoing treatment for the psychological and behavioral facets of addiction beyond detox​.

Myth 8: You have to hit rock bottom before getting help.

The idea of “hitting rock bottom” is a dangerous illusion. The best time to seek help for substance dependency is as soon as there is the slightest concern. The misconception that one must be at their worst before seeking help increases the risk of accidental overdose. Just as one shouldn’t wait until diabetes requires dialysis to start insulin, addiction should be treated as a disease from the outset​.

Myth 9: Relapse means failure.

Relapse does not mean failure. Fighting addiction is one of the toughest battles anyone can face. A relapse does not signify weakness or permanent failure. These thoughts can lead to feelings of worthlessness, shame, guilt, and self-hatred, which hinder recovery.

If relapse occurs, it should be seen as a bump in the road, an opportunity to get back on track without judgment or shame. A relapse experience can increase awareness of triggers and strengthen coping skills for the future.

Myth 10: Addiction treatment is basically the same for everyone.

Addiction treatment isn’t universal—it must be tailored to address individual triggers and stressors. Mental health symptoms and trauma heavily influence addiction, emphasizing the need for personalized treatment plans that are regularly reassessed and adjusted for optimal results.

Personalized approaches consider various factors, including the type of substance used, co-occurring mental health disorders, and the individual’s unique life circumstances​.

Myth 11: Medication-assisted treatment is just replacing one addiction with another.

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) medications like buprenorphine or methadone are prescribed by medical professionals, closely supervised, and carefully dosed. Research consistently demonstrates that MAT significantly lowers relapse and overdose risks. By stabilizing brain chemistry and curbing cravings, MAT empowers individuals to rebuild their lives free from the persistent battle against withdrawal symptoms. MAT supports recovery by allowing individuals to focus on therapy and other aspects of their lives without the constant struggle against cravings and withdrawal​.³

Myth 12: Relapse prevention is only about avoiding substances and triggers.

Relapse prevention goes beyond merely avoiding substances and triggers—it’s a holistic approach centered on personal growth, resilience, and overall well-being in recovery.

Developing a tailored plan, informed by an individual’s substance use history, shifts focus from purely clinical aspects to personal development. This empowers individuals to strive toward self-improvement, inspiring growth rather than perpetuating a struggle against substances.

Experience Healing at Lumina Recovery

Lumina Recovery offers compassionate, comprehensive addiction treatment, including inpatient and outpatient care, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT). We are committed to empowering lives and creating change through personalized recovery plans that address the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of drug and alcohol addiction.

Reach out to our team today—it’s never too late to seek help! We are dedicated to providing you with the support and healing you deserve.

Sources:

1. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/understanding-addiction/202109/why-trauma-can-lead-to-addiction
2. https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/common-comorbidities-substance-use-disorders/part-1-connection-between-substance-use-disorders-mental-illness
3. https://www.samhsa.gov/medications-substance-use-disorders