Dangers of a Drug Relapse

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A drug relapse can be extremely dangerous, which is why treatment programs and support groups are geared toward minimizing the risk of relapse for recovering individuals. Unfortunately, though, drug addicted individuals have a high potential for relapse, just like those suffering from other chronic diseases.  However, recovering individuals and their loved ones should be informed about the dangers of relapse and the importance of a relapse prevention plan.

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Overdose

Relapsing on opioid drugs puts you at high risk of overdose.

Overdose is one of the riskiest possible outcomes of a drug relapse. Especially in the case of heroin, oxycodone, methadone and other opioid-based drugs.  According to the NLM, “Because withdrawal reduces the person’s tolerance to the drug, those who have just gone through withdrawal can overdose on a much smaller dose than they used to take.”

Unconsciousness, slowed or stopped breathing, cold and clammy hands, and blue fingernails, lips or skin are all signs of a narcotic overdose. If you suspect that someone you know may have relapsed on opioid drugs and is experiencing an overdose as a result, call 911 and give Narcan, if available. Always remain with the individual until first responders arrive.

Return to Addictive Behavior

Many individuals who relapse realize the danger that they have put themselves in and seek help afterwards. But others may not. In some cases, the person may return to their addictive and harmful behaviors after relapsing.  There are ways through which you can determine whether or not a person has begun to abuse drugs again. The common symptoms are:

• Secrecy
• Paranoia
• Refusal to discuss where they go or what they do when you are not with them
• Hostility
• A return to old habits
• A refusal to continue attending treatment
• Lying and manipulating others

When you notice any of these signs, it is important to confront the problem in the safest way possible for both you and the addicted individual.

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Guilty Feelings and Dangerous Actions

While many individuals believe that the occurrence of a relapse means that the individual’s addiction treatment or recovery has failed, this is actually not true. For the addicted individual, relapse indicates that treatment needs to be reinstated or adjusted or that alternate treatment is needed.

However, many people struggling with addiction may not fully recognize this. After a relapse, some individuals experience intense guilt or shame, and in severe cases, these feelings can lead to self-destructive thoughts or behaviors. This is why support from family and friends is so important. Encouragement and reassurance can help the person see relapse as a temporary setback rather than a failure.

Relapse is common in recovery, but reducing its likelihood remains a key goal of treatment. Minimizing relapse risk not only supports long-term sobriety but also helps to protect individuals from the serious physical and psychological dangers that can accompany a return to substance use.

Treatment can help you get back on track. Call 800-934-1582(Sponsored) toll free anytime to get help.

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