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Episode 33: Drink Like a Gentleman? Understanding Relapse and Emotional Sobriety

Relapse doesn’t always begin with a needle or a pill—it often starts with a lie.

In this raw and revealing episode, Jason Coombs shares the gripping story behind his most devastating relapse, just days after graduating drug court. What should have been a victory lap became the gateway to a nine-month spiral of cocaine, heroin, and despair. Based on Chapter 33 of his book Unhooked, this episode breaks down the deceptive nature of “milestones,” the dangerous idea of “drinking like a gentleman,” and why emotional sobriety matters just as much—if not more—than physical sobriety.

Whether you’re walking alongside an addicted loved one or navigating your own recovery, this episode offers deep insight into the relapse cycle, emotional ambivalence, and the hidden inner battles that can derail even the most determined individuals.

In this episode:

• Jason’s relapse after drug court graduation and why milestones can be misleading
• How rationalizations like “drugs were the problem, not alcohol” pave the road to relapse
• The concept of emotional sobriety—and why clean time isn’t the whole picture
• What families need to understand about the Stages of Change and relapse
• “Grace’s” Christmas Eve relapse and how it helped her commit to sobriety
• The Four C’s of family awareness and Seven Steps to Surrender
• How to love someone without losing yourself in their chaos
• And the moment of divine intervention that changed everything

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Why did they relapse?” or felt paralyzed by fear, guilt, or confusion, this episode is for you.

Grab Jason’s book Unhooked on Amazon or Audible.

Learn more about Brick House Recovery at brickhouserecovery.com.

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For more information on treatment services, check out brickhouserecovery.com