Last Updated:
March 13th, 2025
What does a relapse mean?
Relapse is when someone in recovery from addiction returns to substance use or an addictive behaviour after a period of abstinence. While this is the most basic definition, relapse is often more complex than simply using it again. It is usually a process that happens over time rather than a single event.
There are different types of relapse, with some being short-lived and others leading to a full return to previous patterns of use. A lapse is a brief slip where someone may use once but then quickly get back on track, while a full relapse means a return to old habits, often leading to a loss of control over substance use.
Lapse example
Jill has been in recovery from alcohol addiction for six months. One night, at a family gathering, she feels pressured to celebrate with a toast. She takes a sip of champagne but immediately regrets it. The next day, she reaches out to her support group, discusses what happened and recommits to her sobriety. She does not continue drinking and takes steps to prevent a future slip.
Full relapse example
Jack was in recovery from cocaine addiction for a year and was doing well. However, stress at work started building up and he stopped attending his therapy sessions. One night, he meets up with an old friend who still uses. Initially, he tells himself he will just hang out but eventually, he decides to use “just this once.” Over the next few weeks, he starts using more frequently, convincing himself he has control over it. Eventually, he returns to daily use, struggling to stop again.
Catching the early signs of relapse
A relapse doesn’t usually come out of nowhere. While using the substance or engaging in a certain behaviour again is what defines as some form of relapse, the process often begins long before that moment. Certain signs can indicate that someone is at risk, even if they haven’t actively relapsed yet.
Below we take a look at some of the most common ‘red flags’:
Emotional distress and mood swings
Stress, anxiety, frustration or even boredom can make someone more vulnerable to relapse. Unresolved emotional distress can lead to cravings, as the brain starts associating substance use with relief. This is why identifying stressors and having a plan in place, whether through therapy, mindfulness or supportive conversations, can prevent relapse from escalating.
Isolation and withdrawing from support
Cutting off from support networks, skipping meetings or avoiding loved ones can signal an internal struggle. Addiction thrives in secrecy, so when someone starts withdrawing from accountability or support, it could mean they’re battling thoughts of using again. Staying connected, even when it feels difficult, is key.
Romanticising past use
If someone starts remembering substance use through a nostalgic lens, thinking about the “good times” without acknowledging the harm, it can be a warning sign. This kind of thinking often lowers defences, making relapse seem more acceptable. A good approach here is to remind oneself why recovery began in the first place actively.
Changes in routine or self-care
Neglecting self-care, skipping meals, struggling to sleep or losing motivation to engage in daily activities can indicate emotional or mental strain. When routine starts breaking down, it is easier to slip into old patterns. Identifying and restoring healthy habits can help bring stability.
Reconnecting with old environments or triggers
Revisiting places associated with past use, reaching out to old acquaintances who still use or even lingering around environments that carry temptation can be a red flag. Sometimes, this is subconscious. Other times, it is a sign that internal resistance is wearing down.
Increasing risk-taking or justifying small slips
Someone on the verge of relapse may begin taking unnecessary risks, whether that is experimenting with “just one drink” or engaging in behaviours that used to be part of their addiction cycle. These small justifications can quickly spiral into a full relapse if not recognised and addressed.
Does a relapse mean failure?
A relapse does not mean you’ve failed. While avoiding relapse is always the goal, experiencing one doesn’t erase the progress you’ve made; it just highlights areas that may need more attention in your relapse prevention plan.
Recovery isn’t a straight path and many people experience setbacks along the way. A relapse doesn’t mean all the work you’ve put in is wasted; rather, it can be a sign that something in your coping strategies, environment or emotional well-being needs adjusting. Maybe a particular trigger wasn’t fully addressed or stress built up in ways you weren’t prepared for. Recognising this can be an opportunity for growth, not a reason to give up.
For example, someone might have been managing well for months, relying on a structured routine and avoiding old triggers. But then a sudden life stressor (like losing a job or a relationship breakdown) hit harder than expected. If their relapse prevention plan didn’t account for unexpected emotional distress, they might turn back to substances as a way to cope.
In this case, the plan wasn’t a failure but it needed to be adapted to include stronger crisis management strategies, such as new coping mechanisms or a plan for dealing with intense emotions.
This is where therapists and counsellors play a vital role. They can help identify what led to the relapse, whether it was a not-so-obvious emotional trigger or something else entirely. By working together, they can adjust the plan to better support long-term recovery and make sure that next time, there’s a stronger safety net in place.
Instead of seeing relapse as a failure, think of it as a moment to reassess and build an even stronger foundation for the future.
What tips can I follow to prevent relapse?
Patching up long-term recovery plans is essential but there are also steps you can take to make sure other areas of your life aren’t creating opportunities for a relapse.
Below, we take a look at some actionable tips but remember, many of these areas will be discussed and taught to you in therapy with your counsellor, so don’t feel as though you’re on your own with this:
What’s next?
If you’re ready to break free from addiction, Banbury Lodge is here to help. Our rehab programme not only supports you through detox and recovery but also lays the foundations for a strong, long-term relapse prevention plan. With expert guidance, therapy and ongoing support, you’ll have the tools needed to build a lasting, healthier future. Contact us today to take the first step.
