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Relapse in Recovery: Not as Part of the Plan, But Part of the Journey

by Jim Lunsford

Greetings, Resilience Warriors. I’m Jim Lunsford. Today, we’re discussing a sensitive yet crucial aspect of the recovery journey: relapse. This conversation is important, so let’s approach it with the honesty and openness it deserves.

Understanding relapse as a potential part of the recovery process is essential. Yet, it’s critical to underline from the get-go: relapse should never be viewed as a planned part of your recovery. Acknowledging its possibility isn’t the same as accepting it as an inevitability. The distinction here is vital. Recovery is a commitment to a new way of living, a promise to yourself to strive for a life that isn’t defined by addiction. The moment we start to see relapse as a scheduled break or a given part of this journey, we risk undermining that commitment.

The truth is that recovery is tough. It’s a path fraught with challenges, and yes, some may stumble. If a relapse happens, it’s not the end of the world, nor is it the end of your journey. It’s a detour, a signal that it’s time to reassess and adjust your course. It’s an opportunity to learn more about yourself, your triggers, and your needs in recovery. But let’s make it clear: a detour is not the destination.

So, how do we navigate this? First, we should build and lean on a strong support system. Whether it’s friends, family, or a support group, having people who believe in you and your recovery can make all the difference. Next, we should develop healthy coping mechanisms for dealing with stress, boredom, and emotional distress. This could mean turning to exercise, hobbies, meditation, or therapy instead of substances.

Staying engaged with your recovery plan is also key. Whether that involves attending meetings, therapy sessions, or simply taking time each day for self-reflection, keeping your recovery goals front and center in your mind is crucial. And, of course, recognizing and avoiding triggers is essential. The more you understand what prompts your cravings, the better equipped you’ll be to handle those situations when they arise.

If a relapse does happen, approach it with compassion for yourself. It’s an opportunity for growth, not a cause for shame. Take a hard look at what happened, learn from it, and adjust your recovery strategy accordingly. Remember, recovery is a journey, not a sprint. It’s about progress, not perfection.

And hey, a little humor can go a long way. If you stumble, it’s okay to laugh at yourself, pick yourself back up, and keep going. It’s like tripping on a sidewalk crack—embarrassing, maybe, but not the end of the world. Dust yourself off, learn to watch out for that crack next time, and move forward with a smile.

In closing, while relapse can be a part of the recovery process for some, it’s not a foregone conclusion, nor should it be a planned aspect of your recovery. It’s a sign to pause, reassess, and strengthen your commitment to your journey. Remember, each day is a new chance to grow, learn, and take another step toward the life you’re working hard to build.

Stay disciplined. Stay resilient.

Jim Lunsford

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