In all aspects of living, the one common thing is the conscious person, the spirit, soul, or any other name you wish to give it. It is the one variable in all cases of physical or psychological issues. 

Every individual you know, including yourself, have “free will.” You can get the best program available to treat addiction, but it’s the person who needs to decide to use the information.

There is always a choice in using the tools or not or following the program honestly. Let’s consider that each person entering treatment actually wants to stay drug-free. A good number of those entering rehab do complete the program. From this base, a rehab completion, let’s look at what could bring about the relapse?

The first and most prominent reason would be to check if the person did the program honestly or brushed it off. It is surprising how many relapse abusers fit this category. A person may not have the right purpose in doing a treatment program. 

Some will do it to avoid incarceration, wife threaten to leave, or an ultimatum from the boss, etc. Any reason to do rehab other than personally wanting to stop is dishonesty toward self and the program. Relapse is almost certain.

The second reason for relapse would be to verify if the program suited the person and their needs. It occurs more often than one might suppose. Maybe they entered a program based on the 12-step method, and that is not their view. 

Or the program would not allow for outside contact for any reason, yet this person runs a business and has kids, etc. He may “do” the program but has his attention elsewhere throughout his stay. This reason can present itself in a variety of manners. Maybe no gym, and the person likes to keep in shape, etc.

A third reason for relapse is that the person completed their program but has not changed any of their early acquaintances or locations. They go right back to the same apartment, right around the corner from the local “watering hole.” Within days they might bump into their ex-dealer or drinking buddy. 

Going by the same bar will bring up the memories of drinking and using and trigger something. Remember, every daily drug or binge use create memories and can reactivate desires, especially in more challenging moments. Change is good, and re-locating is better.

A fourth reason for relapse is a bit less common but still worth mentioning. The person that did the addiction recovery is the only one that changed. After doing a good addiction recovery, the person should feel way better than when they entered. But, mom, dad, girlfriend, or whoever else still have their memories of the person before rehab. 

They may not realize that the person changed into who they are now. The surrounding people may still mistrust and question every decision and behaviour. This situation can bring doubt to the person. They may question themselves, “am I really okay?” resulting in lowered confidence and the route to relapse.

A fifth reason for relapse is when a person finishes a good substance abuse treatment but puts themselves in harm’s way. It can be as simple as watching a football game at a buddy’s place where there will be drugs or alcohol. 

You may believe you’re ready, but why gamble with your sobriety until you have shown a lengthy dry spell. Sometimes, going straight home after work is more beneficial than stopping by a strip club with fellow workers.