Why Do People Relapse

People fail to stay sober even after following best practices because of underlying factors like untreated mental health issues, an inability to cope with stress, a lack of a strong support system, or an overconfident and complacent mindset. Relapse can also be triggered by persistent withdrawal symptoms, or by subtle environmental cues that remind the person of past use.

Underlying psychological factors

Untreated mental health issues: Co-occurring conditions like anxiety, depression, or trauma can make it harder to maintain sobriety if not also treated.
Low self-efficacy: A person's belief in their own ability to stay sober plays a key role. A lack of self-confidence in managing challenges increases the risk of relapse.
Cognitive distortions: Negative thought patterns, like a person's belief that they are unworthy of a good life, can lead to relapse.

Triggering situations

Stress and emotions: Even in recovery, life presents stress. Negative feelings like anger, loneliness, or sadness can trigger a return to substance use as a coping mechanism.
Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS): Withdrawal symptoms, especially those related to mood, can persist for months or even years after the initial detox period.
Environmental and social triggers: Things like specific places, sights, smells, or being around people who are using can activate the urge to use again.

Complacency and routine

Overconfidence: After a period of sobriety, some individuals may become overconfident, believing they no longer need to focus as much on their recovery efforts.
Lack of self-care: When "life is going well," a person may become less diligent about basic self-care, such as getting enough sleep or eating healthily, which are crucial for managing stress and maintaining sobriety.
Boredom and isolation: A lack of social support and activities can lead to feelings of boredom and loneliness, increasing the risk of relapse