The Phases And Warning Signs of Relapse

by Terence Gorski and Marlene Miller

Terence Gorski and Marlene Miller developed a comprehensive model outlining the phases and warning signs of relapse in their work "The Phases and Warning Signs of Relapse." The model is widely recognized in the addiction recovery community. Here’s a summary of the warning signs they identified, organized by the phases of relapse:

Internal Change

•  Increased stress and tension

•  Changes in thinking patterns (e.g., difficulty concentrating)

•  Altered emotional state (e.g., irritability, anxiety)

•  Isolation or withdrawal from others

•  Denial of these changes or their significance

Denial

•  Ignoring or minimizing the stress or emotional discomfort

•  Rationalizing behaviours that could lead to relapse

•  Resisting help or feedback from others

•  Dishonesty about one’s feelings or struggles

 Avoidance and Defensive Behavior

•  Avoiding people or situations that provide support

•  Defensiveness when confronted about changes in behaviour

•  Resentment or anger toward those who try to help

•  Feeling threatened by the success of others

Crisis Building

•  Increase in self-destructive behaviours (e.g., not attending meetings)

•  Impulsivity and poor decision-making

•  Loss of structure and routine in daily life

•  Sleep disturbances or changes in eating habits

Immobilization

•  Feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope with stress

•  Loss of motivation and energy

•  Isolation intensifies

•  Inability to make decisions or take action

Confusion and Overreaction

•  Confusion and difficulty thinking clearly

•  Overreacting to minor problems or setbacks

•  Feeling hopeless or that recovery is too hard

•  Emotional numbness or detachment

Depression

•  Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness

•  Increased fatigue or loss of interest in activities

•  Feeling trapped, with no way out

•  Contemplating self-harm or suicide
  

Behavioural Loss of Control

•  Engaging in risky or reckless behaviours

•  Loss of focus on recovery activities

•  Feeling out of control or powerless

•  Returning to old habits or environments associated with substance use

Recognition of Loss of Control

•  Realizing that the situation is deteriorating

•  Feeling desperate to regain control

•  Increased feelings of shame or guilt

•  Hiding the severity of the problem from others

Option Reduction

•  Believing that relapse is inevitable

•  Considering using it as a way to cope with emotions or problems

•  Isolation from support networks becomes extreme

•  Loss of hope for recovery

Acute Relapse

•  Returning to substance use

•  Abandoning your recovery program entirely

•  Possible overdose or other serious consequences of use
  

Recognizing the warning signs of relapse is crucial for maintaining long-term recovery. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these signs, don't wait, Reach out for support today. It could mean talking to a counsellor, attending a meeting, or leaning on your support network. Remember, relapse doesn't have to be the end of your recovery journey.

Take the first step now—reach out to Sarah Montes Recovery Services for personalized support and guidance on your path to lasting recovery.