What is relapse? The process of becoming dysfunctional in recovery or the process of returning to old thinking, attitudes and behaviors that lead to the use of chemical substances and ultimately, if not stopped, will lead back to regular using. Using is the last phase of relapse.

Relapse begins with "stuck points" in life that are mismanaged - problems at work, at home, unresolved conflicts, resentments, life crisis, death, etc. The chronic relapser experiences a stuck point and does not ask for help. Denial sets in.

Stage I
Return of denial – feeling irritable or "out of sorts" and not talking about it. Individuals begin to isolate. When a person is in denial and does not have the tools to identify it, one does not know they are in denial, because they are in denial. The stuck point is denied and stress is elevated. They go into internal dysfunction, "stinking thinking," can’t think clearly, cockiness, complacency, "I can do this my way, I don’t need your help, I am fine," etc.

Stage II
Avoidance Behavior – Individuals begin to be dishonest with themselves. They become even more isolated and go into external dysfunction by avoiding meetings, not calling their sponsor, engaging in risky behaviors, and not listening to others all together. They are completely oblivious to warning signs.

Stage III
Crisis Building – Individuals are overwhelmed and feel out of control. There is a severe breakdown regarding their recovery program prescribed, depression and anxiety are taking over. Individuals then resort to self-medicating (drinking, using drugs or acting out in other addictive ways). This brings only temporary relief.

Denial – A group of psychological defenses and maneuvers that addicts use to protect themselves from the realization that they have a substance abuse problem.

Individuals who are functional in recovery get stuck and ask for help. They learn to consolidate their resources at the stuck point and access support systems. They take action. They learn the tools to work through stuck points and identify warning signs to relapse. Recognition of common triggers and high-risk situations is key before the process of relapse begins. Each trigger or warning sign will vary according to each individual.