Substance addiction is one of the most difficult diseases to fight since drugs and alcohol biologically rewire your brain to crave them. With this being the case, it’s not entirely uncommon for young adults to experience moments of great temptation and even potentially relapse, especially as they first begin their recovery journey.

There are many reasons why someone may relapse, and being aware of some of the most common ones can help you spot warning signs and stay sober.

Why Do People Relapse After Addiction Recovery?

Improper Detox

If someone decides to quit using drugs or alcohol cold turkey, they can experience symptoms of withdrawal since they abruptly denied their body that substance. Without taking the proper steps to safely detox, a young adult runs the risk of relapsing when the withdrawal symptoms become too overwhelming.

Triggers are Too Impactful

Recovery requires people to recognize people, places, and things that make them want to use or have a negative impact on their sobriety. If, after they become sober, a person is still faced with the triggers these factors offer, they may relapse under the pressure.

Struggles with Mental Illness

There is a strong connection between mental illness and addiction. If someone still struggles with anxiety, depression, or another mental illness and doesn’t address these issues during their recovery, they run a higher risk of relapse since they may be tempted to begin using substances again to suppress symptoms of their illness.

Poor Aftercare

Recovery is not complete the moment someone leaves their treatment program. Young adults need to take measures — such as therapy, nutritional planning, and exercise — to maintain their sobriety. If they don’t take those steps and develop poor aftercare habits, their risk for relapse increases.

Residential Alcohol & Drug Treatment in Pennsylvania

At Silvermist Recovery Center, our philosophy is that every young adult struggling with a substance use disorder is capable of revitalization, persistent change, and autonomy in adulthood when given the tools and support to thrive.

For more information about our addiction treatment centers in Pennsylvania, contact our admissions experts.