Interesting topic and it's exactly right. If this on the forum begin to drink again, a relapse as you suggest, it's often the case where they drop-off and perhaps return at a later date or don't return at all. It's the case with AA too, probably more so because someone with 2 or more years of sobriety may relapse and could be in mid-stream of spooning someone through the 12-steps. So why do we relapse? "Doing more research" is a nice way to put it. Personally, if I begin to drink again, I go through a specific process, since I binge drink. It last months, until I max out. The only problem is each time it happens it seems to last longer, gain in intensity, and the physical and mental recovery time becomes more difficult. If we just stop and don't resolve or remove the drivers that precipitated the problem in the first place, i.e. a lousy marriage, etc, do you think the chance of relapse is more likely to happen?
I relapsed probably about a hundred times before entering the fellowship of AA. By the grace of my higher power, I have not since found the need to drink. But, yes, I relapsed time and time again when I thought that I could quit on my own.
This is a great idea. I'm on a miraculous day 6 of sobriety after starting to take naltrexone. As happy as I am to be sober there is a little part of my that is scared for if/when I relapse. I'm not really sure exactly how to make a plan though...
You're right about how important it is to discuss this stuff openly. Shame has kept our experiences in the dark for far too long and made it impossible to learn from each other. I have a pretty good support system of non-alcoholics but I've found this site an excellent opportunity to hear from people I can really relate to.
Example: This weekend my father congratulated me on my sobriety and gave the advice he's given so often that "after a few months just don't give into temptation". Thanks, dad. I hadn't thought of that before lol They mean well but they just have no idea how to actually empathize with what we experience.
When I would try to quit, and I would inevitably fail, I would withdraw farther from people. But there should be no shame!
It shocks me how many people post once or twice here, and then we never hear from them again. Not to say they all relapse, but it is the nature of our illness, so it must happen more than we see here. I hope everyone realizes that this is a process, and sometimes it involves some setbacks. When that happens, it's especially important to stay close to people you can trust and who understand you.
We will be there for anyone who needs it. This can even be the relapse thread. Just post a quick reply on this thread for support...
Just a quick note of encouragement to those who are experiencing relapses. Relapse is a part of recovery. In my group, we call it "doing more research."
When you relapse, make sure you come in here and talk about it. Don't be ashamed! The very worst thing that can happen is being ashamed and feeling guilty. WE UNDERSTAND! We won't judge you.
Have a plan. Even if you don't plan to relapse, have a plan in case it happens. AND, please don't hide if it happens. We are here for you.
It’s been a while since you were active on this site. Please extend your session below
You have been logged out due to inactivity.
Please sign back in.
We use cookies to help us learn about how our platform is used and how we can improve your experience. To
learn more please see our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
