When a person receives treatment for addiction to any substance, relapse is common, but alcohol relapse rates are thought to be much higher than in other substance use disorders. They may not recognize that stopping use of a substance is only the first step in recovery—what must come after that is building or rebuilding a life, one that is not focused around use. They may falsely believe that their recovery is complete, or that cravings are a sign of failure, when in fact it takes time to rebuild a life and time for the brain to rewire itself and learn to respond to everyday pleasures.
Still, too many people perceive alcohol addiction as a moral flaw or a personal failing—especially when someone tries to quit and relapses. Hence, we decided to undertake the study to compare the correlates of relapse in alcohol and opioid dependence. The primary goal of this study was to compare the Facts About Aging and Alcohol National Institute on Aging correlates of relapse in alcohol dependence and opioid dependence while assessing reasons for relapse in both the groups. The study also compared negative affect, craving, self-efficacy, and perceived expressed emotions between the alcohol-dependent participants versus the opioid-dependent ones.
The Development of an Individualized Addiction Treatment Plan
Relapse triggers a sense of failure, shame, and a slew of other negative feelings. It’s fine to acknowledge them, but not to dwell on them, because they could hinder the most important action to take immediately—seeking help. Taking quick action can ensure that relapse is a part of recovery, not a detour from it.
“In addition, alcohol can depress the levels of mood regulating neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and norepinephrine,” he adds. To understand such connections, it’s important to know how depressants work. Research shows that depressants affect one’s central nervous system by reducing feelings of stimulation or arousal in users https://g-markets.net/sober-living/how-to-clean-your-system-from-alcohol-in-24-hours/ while also slowing down or interfering with messages between their brain and body. Check out our blog posts and resource links for the latest information on substance abuse. Call our helpline today to learn more about Bedrock’s treatment options. One common predictor of relapse is leaving treatment or ending your treatment too soon.