Resources for Recovery – Signs of Relapse
The Gorski-CENAPS model identifies phases and warning signs for relapse. If you see warning signs like these, you or someone you know may be at risk of relapse:
- Return to denying there’s a problem
- Avoidance and defensive behavior
- Crisis building
- Immobilization (inability to take any action)
- Confusion and overreaction
- Depression
- Behavioral loss of control
- Recognition of loss of control
- Option reduction (feeling trapped and that there are only 3 ways out – insanity, suicide or drug use)
- Acute relapse episode
The following are “warning phases” from the Gorski-CENAPS model. These are changes in behavior which could signal the onset of a relapse.
- Stopping or decreasing recovery-related activities
- Isolating from friends, family and peers in recovery
- Becoming defensive in response to questions about your well-being
- The inability to stop thinking about alcohol and other drugs
- Becoming confused, irritable or angry
- Trouble sleeping
- Excessive worrying about others instead of self
Important Note: Intervention during any of these phases CAN re-engage you in recovery!
Are you struggling with your recovery? Experiencing any of the warning signs above?
Call us now at 408-370-9688 or 800-811-1800, before things get worse. We CAN help!
10 Common Relapse Dangers
If you are experiencing the following situations, you may be in danger of relapse. Please ask for help!
10 Dangers Leading to Relapse
- Being in the presence of alcohol and/or other drugs, those who are drinking or using
- Feelings we perceive as negative, particularly anger, but also sadness, loneliness, guilt, fear, and anxiety
- Positive feelings that make you want to “celebrate”
- Boredom
- Getting high on any drug
- Physical pain
- Listening to war stories and dwelling on getting high
- Suddenly having a lot of cash
- Not informing your doctor about your recovery program. (Prescriptions medications can lead to improper use and new dependencies; this is a frequent road to relapse.)
- Becoming complacent—the recovering person can convince himself and sometimes others that he or she doesn’t have a problem—and relapses
Are you or someone you care about in danger of relapsing?
If you feel you’re at risk or you think a loved one may be, please call Support Systems Homes at 408-370-9688 or 800-811-1800 before the situation gets worse.
