April 13, 2023

Is Relapse More Common Today?

8 minutes

Aloha and welcome to the sobriety rocks podcast, I’m your host, Kirk Waterman. Today we talk about Is Relapse More Common Today Than 25 Years Ago

An anonymous person in recovery said, ““Just because someone stumbles and loses their path, doesn’t mean they’re lost forever.”

Someone asked me why relapse is more common today than it was when we first got clean and sober. I’m not sure it is, but there may be a perception that relapse is more common today.

First, addiction treatment and recovery has evolved and become much more mainstream than it used to be. And, with the population being significantly higher, relapse percentages may be the same, but overall numbers have increased.

Second, with the opioid epidemic having such a profound impact these last few years, many people addicted to prescribed opioids may relapse when trying to taper and reduce the amount they take.

Third, people today are much more connected to one another than they were 25 years ago. With social media being a powerful tool for sharing stories of relapse and recovery, there may be a perception that relapse is more common today.

Also, let's not forget that recovery is difficult and can be very discouraging. Therefore, setbacks and relapses are to be expected.

But, the most important thing to remember is, if we help, encourage and support each other, we reduce the risk of relapse, and increase our chance to achieve and maintain long-term recovery.

Today we close with a gratitude meditation. So please, get comfortable, close your eyes, take a few slow deep breaths, and join me.

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