There are many different physical and behavioral relapse warning signs. Becoming familiar with the signs of relapse can deter someone from using substances again.
Some common signs of drug addiction relapse include:
Drug cravings
Sudden mood changes
Depressed, anxious or destructive thoughts
Denial of events or behaviors
Secretive behavior
Increased irritability
Avoiding family members or friends
Making impulsive decisions
Returning to previous habits, routines or social groups
Developing effective coping strategies to handle cravings can help people avoid setbacks.
Common Relapse Triggers
Various relapse triggers can cause people to succumb to old patterns or give in to their drug cravings. Drug addiction relapse triggers can be stress-inducing people, places or behaviors that can cause someone to misuse drugs or alcohol.
Most common drug and alcohol related relapse triggers
Bars or clubs
Friends or family members who also misuse drugs or alcohol
Stressful environments, like hospitals
Interpersonal relationship issues
Places where substance misuse often occurs
Feeling bored
Parties where drug and alcohol use occurs
Stressful life situations
Many people get triggered by high-stress situations, but others find celebrations and other positive experiences to be major triggers. A person should reflect on their thoughts, feelings and behaviors to learn what triggers them specifically.
Whether relapse triggers are verbal, physical, behavioral or environmental in nature, the presence of triggers does not mean that someone will relapse into drug use. With healthy coping mechanisms and a firm resolve, triggers can be faced and avoided.