10 Most Common Relapse Triggers in Addiction Recovery

By developing adaptive coping skills and practicing self-care during alcoholism treatment transitions, you can continue on your path to recovery and avoid setbacks. There are two main types of triggers to be aware of — internal triggers and external triggers. External triggers are often easier to identify, as they are people, places, things and activities that make someone want to use drugs or alcohol again. Internal triggers can be more difficult to identify as they are feelings that are often complex.

Why Relapse Is a Part of Recovery, Not a Failure

Additionally, join local recovery meetings to interact with peers in similar situations.
Triggers are external or internal stimuli that cause cravings to use a substance or engage in a behavior, often leading to a relapse.
Clinically, Warren has developed a therapeutic skillset that utilizes a strengths-based perspective, Twelve Step philosophies, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
These substance abuse triggers, if left unaddressed, may quickly lead an individual back to their addiction as they attempt to recreate the familiar “relief” these substances provide.
During the mental relapse stage, a person actively thinks about using drugs or alcohol again, and they may attempt to rationalize returning to drug use.

Studies reflect that about 40-60% of individuals relapse within 30 days of leaving an inpatient drug and alcohol treatment center, and up to 85% relapse within the first year. Through an understanding of common risks for addiction relapse, individuals can be better equipped and better able to maintain their recovery. Here are a list of 10 common triggers that contribute to addiction relapse. The most effective way to address relapse triggers is through a comprehensive approach that addresses both internal and external triggers.

Maybe you, then, find yourself thinking about the “good times,” downplaying the consequences, or even imagining how you could use just once and be fine.
If you can’t seem to find your triggers by yourself, then going to a therapist or drug addiction professional will be a great resource.
A trigger is an emotional, environmental or social situation that drags up memories of drug or alcohol use in the past.
Once these thoughts and behaviors are identified, the therapist will work with the patient to find alternative ways to frame and cope with them.
Support networks also serve as immediate sources of comfort during moments of distress.

Understanding Addiction and Substance Use Disorder

Depression, anxiety, and other types of relapse triggers underlying mental illnesses can trigger drug or alcohol relapse. Physical illness and pain can also put you at risk for relapsing, as your body is stressed. Recovering from addiction is a lifelong journey that requires daily effort and vigilance.

Navigating External Triggers: Recognition and Coping Mechanisms

Developing coping strategies for emotional factors and skills to navigate environmental triggers is crucial. Self-awareness is the foundation for managing internal triggers in recovery. By paying close attention to your feelings and mental states—such as stress, anxiety, boredom, or sadness—you can identify early signs of emotional triggers that may lead to cravings.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) involves unwanted, persistent thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions).
Relapse prevention group activities can be a cornerstone in the journey to recovery.
Opioid recovery benefits from medicines like buprenorphine, methadone, and extended-release naltrexone that reduce cravings and block opioid effects.

Creating a structured schedule for this transition period helps manage these initial triggers effectively. At 12 South Recovery, our discharge planning begins early in treatment, preparing clients specifically for the triggers they’ll likely https://bushwire.org/kudzu-for-alcoholism-the-ultimate-dosage-guide/ encounter during those critical first weeks at home. At 12 South Recovery, we help clients identify unique trigger patterns and develop personalized prevention plans. Recognizing these common relapse triggers could make the difference between continued recovery and returning to substance use. Developing strategies for processing and navigating difficult emotions is vital to prevent emotional turmoil from leading to a relapse. This might include seeking professional help, such as therapy or counseling, to better understand and manage these emotions.