I Relapsed Back to Cocaine Abuse: What Do I Do Now?
Relapse is a common occurrence, especially for former cocaine abusers, and it is important to seek help instead of considering your recovery a failure. Call 800-934-3781(Who Answers?) now to find a rehab center where you can learn to fight cravings, be treated for withdrawal symptoms, and receive other benefits that will help you create a stronger recovery from cocaine abuse.
Relapse is Not Failure
The most important thing for you to realize at this time is relapse is not the same as failure, and it is not necessary, nor beneficial for you to give up on your recovery. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, “Relapse rates of addiction resemble those of other chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and asthma,” and often, multiple treatment programs are necessary over the course of a recovering person’s life in order to maintain their avoidance of an addictive drug, especially cocaine.
Just because you relapsed does not mean you can’t continue your recovery, and you will be able to do so once you choose again to stay sober. At this point, reinstating or readjusting your treatment program may be necessary, but giving up isn’t.
Talk to Someone
It can be hard to admit that you relapsed, especially if you have been in recovery for a long time, but talking to someone close to you about it can be very helpful.
A friend, family member, or another loved one can help put the issue in perspective and make you feel less alone.
This individual can also show you support, reminding you there are others who truly want to see you succeed and will urge you to keep trying.
Consider the Why
Consider whether a co-occurring mental disorder lead to your relapse.
Ask yourself why this relapse occurred. Were you feeling sad, lonely, or angry? Are you struggling with a co-occurring mental disorder? Did a severe craving for the drug come on that took you by surprise?
According to the National Library of Medicine, “People who stopped using cocaine can still feel strong cravings for the drug, sometimes even years later.”
Any of these issues could have helped lead to your relapse back to cocaine abuse. Understanding why and how it happened can help you avoid such issues in the future, and it can help you figure out which step you should take next.
If you feel you are unable to do so on your own, talking to your doctor or a counselor can help, especially once you decide to seek treatment again.
Seek Treatment Now
You may have been in recovery for years before your relapse, but it is never too late or a bad idea to seek another treatment program for cocaine abuse. It can help to always be a part of some sort of program, even a hands-off group like Cocaine Anonymous, but at this point, you may need to consider something more controlled.
Many rehab centers exist where you can get help and make your recovery stronger. Relapse is not the end of your better life, and you can continue what you started now by seeking treatment. Call 800-934-3781(Who Answers?) today to learn about your options and to find the best rehab program for your current needs.