Understanding Relapse ...................................................

A relapse can be big or small. For example, maybe you took a sip of wine in celebration or binge ate whilst in recovery for an eating disorder or maybe you self harmed. All of these things are normal for someone in recovery. Here are five quick things to think about post-relapse:

1. Sobriety is not a straight path. People make mistakes, change and grow. While relapses can be heartbreaking and an especially somber event, they are not permanent. You will always have the opportunity to become sober again, and build a longer lasting distance between your addiction and yourself.  
   
   
2. Knowing your triggers. What caused you to relapse? Was it your friends or being around someone currently using or self harming? Did bad memories surface that you would’ve rather stay hidden? Whatever your trigger was, there was something leading up to your relapse. When you find out what or who might’ve triggered you or caused this lapse in sobriety, it’ll be easier for you to move forward and remember in the future.
   
   
3. Being honest with yourself and others. As difficult as it may be, being honest with those who are supporting you is one of the best things you can do. Being honest about your relapse(s), especially with those in your support network can prevent it from happening again in the future. Your mental health will likely be affected by this, so having people around you who will provide actual support and understanding toward you during this time is imperative.
   
   
4. Forgiving yourself and others. Part of recovery is learning to forgive yourself for things you have done. Addiction is selfish and unforgiving; take back your power by realizing that you can and likely will make mistakes. You are not your addiction. Remind yourself how hard you worked to get as far as you have on the path to sobriety.
   
   
5. Embrace your emotions. While relapses can cause depression, manic behavior, anxiety, etc., it’s good to allow yourself to feel all of these things to prevent it from happening in the future. These feelings can help to remind you that while you made a mistake, you have the power to not yield to your addiction again. These feelings are healthy and will help you feel better in the long run.
   
   

Relapse can be difficult and may feel all encompassing when it happens, but it is not the end for your sobriety. You still hold all the cards in terms of sobriety and one mistake on this path will not stop you from continuing to becoming a sober individual. Recovery can be hard, but you are still worthy of healing. Remind yourself of these five things wherever you are in your path to health.  

Candace Davis is TLC's Social Media intern. She has a penchant for writing about those with mental health struggles and all things social media.