5 Signs of Addiction Relapse in Your Loved One

One in 10 Americans has had some sort of addiction at some point in their life. Addiction is its own type of affliction, distinct from mental and physical illness — this is why many people look at it as a spiritual battle. After all, there’s no mental or physical illness out there that people enjoy the cause of in the moment.

Addiction is tough to understand, and unfortunately, addiction relapse is part of the recovery process. Almost every recovery program has a plan for dealing with addiction worked in.

Because of this, it’s highly important that the loved ones of those suffering from addiction understand the signs of relapse. If they catch it early enough, they can prevent a full relapse.

This article will walk you through a few of the signs of relapse.

1. Seeing Old Friends

One of the biggest things that can keep a person stuck in patterns of addiction is the friends they keep. It’s very important to many of those suffering from addiction to change their circle in order to change their ways of thinking.

If the person you love is seeing friends that were around in a darker part of your life, you should be suspicious. They might say that these friends have changed their perspective, but you can never be sure.

2. Needing More Money

If your loved aks for more money than they did before, seems to be working harder to obtain money, or has become more frugal than you know them to be, they might just be slipping back to addiction.

Saving money is a good thing and it should be encouraged. However, if there’s a sudden uptick in the amount of money this person needs, they might be falling victim to old ways.

3. Change In Appearance

A sudden dramatic loss of weight could be evidence of a relapse. Those suffering from addiction often find themselves missing sleep or missing meals.

4. Abdication of Responsibilities

If your loved one starts failing to live up to responsibilities in their family, work, social life, or hobbies, they might have something else taking up space in their mind.

It’s important to catch this sign early since a failure to meet up with responsibilities can damage their future prospects and relationships.

5. Dwelling On the Past

If your loved one suddenly takes a new look at their dark years, you might have a problem on your hand. Your significant other should be able to recognize the flaws that their addiction caused them. Romanticization could mean they’re trying to justify a relapse.

For more information on dating a recovering addict, have a look here.

Understand Addiction Relapse

Addiction relapse is tough for any loved one of a person who is going through addiction recovery. However, if you know the signs, you can catch the addiction early and get your loved ones the help they need.

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