Although relapse is a symptom of addiction, it is preventable. A key factor in preventing relapse is improved social adjustment. However if you have strong family support, employment and a desire to remain substance free the relapse rates lower.

Relapse is usually caused by a combinations of factors or excuses, the most common are listed below:

• Thinking you can 'just have one bit'.
• Being complacent about drug use
• Bored with not having drugs
• Being over confident about drug use
• Looking for excuse to use - arguments, stress, happiness, treat
• Hanging around old drug using haunts or drug using friends – slippery places
• Keeping drugs and drug paraphernalia around the house for any reason
• Obsessive thinking about using drugs
• Failing to follow ones treatment plan – quitting support – skipping doctors appointments
• Feeling overconfident – that you no longer need support
• Relationship difficulties – ongoing serious conflicts – a spouse who still uses
• Setting unrealistic goals – perfectionism – being too hard on ourselves
• Feeling overwhelmed – confused – useless – stressed out
• Constant boredom – irritability – lack of routine and structure in life
• Sudden changes in psychiatric symptoms
• Dwelling on resentments and past hurts – anger – unresolved conflicts
• Avoidance – refusing to deal with personal issues and other problems of daily living
• Engaging in obsessive behaviors – workaholism – gambling – and acting out
• Major life changes – loss – grief – trauma – painful emotions – winning the lottery
• Ignoring relapse warning signs and triggers

We have found that after Bio-Reduction Therapy, our clients are less likely to relapse as they feel in control.

In any event, as soon as the relapse occurs the individual should return for a top up treatment immediately and not weeks or months later.