Is Relapse Part of Recovery?

As a clinician treating addicts and alcoholics over the past thirty years, I’ve heard people say that relapse is part of recovery oft repeated and to be honest, it bugs me. A lot. In my experience it’s directed at clients and their families as an explanation for a recent relapse. In that context it’s used to soften the blow when someone loses their recovery. All part of the process it’s said, and while relapse certainly is a common experience, is it inevitable? I think not, and I would add it’s a dangerous message to send to clients grappling with addiction and especially so in the context of the opioid epidemic where overdose is an ever-present danger. Do you want a loved-one in recovery thinking that relapse is inevitable?

I prefer to think of recovery as decisional and not beyond the capability of anyone. Is it easy? No. But with commitment, an open mind and the willingness to prioritize recovery it’s possible to stay clean and sober. I’ve heard thousands of stories about relapse and most of the time it occurs because the individual strayed from the daily supports that enabled them to be successful. I encourage relapsers to learn from their mistake so they don’t repeat it. I’ve never heard of someone innocently going about their day who was tackled and had booze poured down their throat or a needle stuck in their arm. It’s something we decide to do to ourselves, therefore we can decide to NOT do it to ourselves! We can remain clean and sober if we stay committed. Put all you have into your recovery and you’ll keep it!