Relapse During Crisis

Reading Time: 3 Minutes

Our world is currently experiencing a significant crisis. As we are trying to move through this COVID-19 pandemic, it is essential to recognize that relapse can occur during a crisis. However, it is more important to understand how to prevent a relapse during a crisis.
Why do we relapse during tough times?

Isolation: “Stay at home” orders, social distancing, and isolation can put a considerable strain on individuals in recovery. We attend recovery meetings, meet with our sponsors, go to community recovery events, and engage with others in recovery.
We participate in the community so we can become stronger and also be able to lend a helping hand to those who are new to recovery or who are struggling in their recovery journey. When we have our community stripped away from us, it can lead to feelings of loneliness and sadness, which can trigger an unexpected relapse.

Fear, stress, and lack of control: A crisis can elicit fear and stress. There are some aspects of this COVID-19 crisis that we cannot control, and not being in control in addition to insurmountable levels of fear and stress can result in an unexpected relapse.

Self-pity: We are our own worst critics. If we start to ruminate on our past and the things, we have done wrong, our actions and blame toward others, and our unfortunate circumstances or mistreatment. We begin to play the role of a victim, which can eventually lead to relapse.
How do we prevent relapse during a crisis?

Maintain relationships and a strong support system: Just because we are stuck in our homes does not mean we cannot interact with others. Staying at home does not mean we cannot attend virtual support group meetings and continue to build our trust and strength in our support systems.

Practice self-care: We must take care of our body, mind, and spirit during a crisis. Our stress levels are probably higher than usual, so this is the perfect time to practice relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, journaling, and prayer.
We must nourish our body with whole foods, get enough uninterrupted sleep, drink plenty of water, exercise and sharpen our minds by learning a new hobby or reading a book.

Maintain a daily routine: It is essential to maintain a daily routine that keeps us engaged and busy. Adopting regular sleep schedules, meal times, outings for essential errands, workout routines, and community social hours are all important when scheduling and maintaining a daily routine.

What happens if we relapse during a crisis?

We call our sponsor, a friend, our therapist, or anyone in our support system and tell them what happened. We need to be honest with ourselves, and with those we trust so they can help hold us accountable. We get back into community virtual meetings with our support groups or an inpatient residential treatment program.

How can we help?

We are here for you! We are committed to the health and safety of you and/or your loved ones, and we are FULLY OPEN & OPERATIONAL. At AKUA Mind Body, the safety of our Clients is our top priority. We are aware of the increased fear and anxiety among most people regarding the current pandemic. Hence, we are doing everything that we can to keep health and safety.

If you or someone you love is struggling with a mental health illness or substance use and addiction disorder, we can help now more than ever! AKUA Mind & Body provides an integrative treatment approach with multiple levels of care from detox and residential to virtual outpatient programs. With several facilities throughout the Sacramento Region, Los Angeles & Orange County Region, and San Diego Region, we aim to provide our clients with a solid foundation for healing and transformation. Gender-specific and Co-ed facilities are available.

Call our 24/7 admissions helpline to seek help today!