There are a few areas of addiction recovery and treatment where unfortunate myths and misconceptions sometimes arise, and one such area is that of relapse. While most people involved in addiction recovery are aware that relapse refers to issues of returning to a given substance or other addiction form against one’s better judgement, there are a few particulars within the realm of relapse that are sometimes misunderstood.
At Moonlight Mountain Recovery, we’re here to offer a wide range of addiction recovery programs throughout Boise, Washington and Oregon, including both outpatient and inpatient options. Relapse understanding and avoidance approaches are both major parts of our programs, and we regularly help clear up misconceptions that come up in this area. Here are a few of the most common myths out there surrounding relapse in particular, plus the proper information in each area.
Improper Definitions of Relapse
One of the broader misconception areas out there regarding relapse is found within the simple definition of relapse to begin with. There are myths on both sides of the coin here, including some simple examples:
- Only using a little isn’t relapse: Some people believe that if they only use a little bit of whatever substance or addiction form they’re trying to avoid, that this isn’t actually relapse. The truth is that even the smallest amount can constitute a full-on relapse and should be treated as such.
- Relapse means returning completely: On the other hand, some people assume that if their recovery efforts don’t result in total abstinence from a given substance or addiction form, then they have relapsed in some way. In this case, relapse does not necessarily mean returning to the same level of consumption as before; it simply means using against one’s better judgement.
- Relapse means failure: Down related lines, there is also a misconception surrounding the idea of relapse as failure. People will sometimes take on a sense of shame and guilt when it comes to relapse, believing that this constitutes some sort of failure in overall recovery efforts. This could not be further from the truth; relapses are common, and they can be overcome with proper understanding and support structures.
Relapse Cannot Be Prevented
For some reason, there’s a myth out there that relapse is a completely independent entity, one that cannot be prevented. This is simply not the case; while relapse is certainly a common part of addiction recovery, it can also be actively avoided with proper understanding and planning.
At Moonlight Mountain Recovery, we have an array of approaches to help our clients prevent relapses in their respective journeys. Our specialists will offer both personalized relapse prevention plans as well as general relapse avoidance techniques. These approaches will ensure that our patients are well-equipped to stay on track in their respective addiction recovery journeys.
Avoiding Relapse is a Solo Journey
Like other parts of addiction recovery, some mistakenly believe that relapse avoidance is a solo journey. This couldn’t be further from the truth; relapse prevention is best attained with the support and guidance of others, especially those who have been through similar struggles in their own journeys.
For instance, family members, trusted friends, and addiction recovery professionals can all offer invaluable advice when it comes to avoiding relapses. At Moonlight Mountain Recovery, we have a wide range of resources available in this area, including both group therapy sessions with other individuals facing similar issues as well as one-on-one guidance from our experienced staff.
If You’re Dedicated, You Won’t Relapse
This one relates back to the “failure” misconception mentioned earlier. Some people mistakenly believe that if they stay dedicated and committed to their recovery efforts, then relapse is simply not possible. In reality, this isn’t so; even with complete dedication, there’s still a chance of relapse happening, especially during periods of high stress or other challenging life situations.
At Moonlight Mountain Recovery, we understand the many complexities surrounding addiction recovery and relapse avoidance. Our team of experienced specialists will work with you to create a comprehensive, personalized plan that can help keep you on track throughout your journey. We’ll provide both support and guidance during this process, helping ensure that any potential relapses are addressed in a timely manner.
Ultimately, it’s important to remember that relapse prevention is a key part of any addiction recovery journey. By implementing proper relapse avoidance plans and techniques, you will be much better equipped to stay on track with your respective journey, no matter what life throws at you. With the right understanding and support, true success is within reach.
Moonlight Mountain Recovery is here to help every step of the way – contact us today for more information on any of our addiction recovery programs in Boise, Washington or Oregon.
