The earlier the signs of an alcohol relapse are recognized in yourself or someone you love, the sooner you can take action. The sooner you take action, the greater the likelihood of maintaining long-term recovery. Warning signs of alcohol relapse can vary depending on the person. You might notice dry drunk behavior. Dry drunk behavior means that even though someone hasn’t relapsed, they start acting very similarly to when they were drinking.
Other signs of an alcohol relapse can include:
Not going to meetings
Social withdrawal
Not attending therapy appointments
Spending time with old friends
Neglecting hygiene or physical appearance
Changes in behavior
Becoming more secretive
Less healthy lifestyle habits, like giving up exercise or healthy eating
What To Do After a Relapse
If you’ve experienced a relapse, your next steps are important.
Talk to someone. This might be your sponsor, a sober friend, your therapist, a trusted friend, or a family member you don’t drink with. Go through what you think the reasons for your relapse might be and how you can avoid a future situation.
Allow yourself to feel whatever you’re going through. You might feel frustrated, embarrassed, or shameful. Don’t bury these feelings. Experience them fully because burying feelings and emotions can make a relapse last longer or make it harder to work through.
Avoid isolation. It’s a relapse trigger, while social support from sober friends and family can help you manage triggers, like stress.
Consider your treatment plan. Consider whether you want to modify or add to your treatment plan. Discuss this with your treatment team.