Dealing with a recovering addict may be a sensitive stage that requires awareness and patience from those around him. After the addiction treatment journey, the person remains vulnerable to mood swings and psychological and social challenges, and may need continuous support to maintain the stability of his condition.

At Al Mousa Specialist Hospital, integrated support programs are provided that take into account the psychological and social needs of those recovering, to ensure continued recovery in the long term.

Can someone recovering from addiction become a normal person?

Yes, someone recovering from addiction can return to being a normal person, but it is not immediate or automatic. Rather, it is an ongoing process that requires effort and support.

Returning to normal life begins with the recovering person's commitment to a comprehensive treatment program that includes psychotherapy, behavioral rehabilitation, regular medical follow-up, and being surrounded by someone who is good at dealing with the recovering addict in a supportive manner.

Over time, and by avoiding the environments and people that were associated with the period of addiction, the recovering person can regain his ability to think clearly, control emotions, and integrate into society again.

Stages of relapse after recovery from addiction

The stages of relapse after recovering from addiction often pass through three sequential stages, each of which has distinct indicators and behaviors. If recognized early, a complete return to addiction can be prevented:

• Emotional relapse

At this stage, the person no longer actually uses, but his feelings and behavior begin to be negatively affected.

• Mental relapse

The person begins to struggle internally between wanting to stay sober and wanting to return to using.

• Physical relapse

This is the stage where a person actually returns to using the drug or alcohol, whether in a small dose or returning to the same previous pattern.

Learn about: Relapse after addiction treatment Its causes and methods of dealing

What are the challenges of a person recovering from addiction?

There are many challenges facing a person recovering from addiction, affecting psychological, social and physical aspects, the most prominent of which are:

• Strong desire to use (craving)

After quitting addiction, a person's brain may still retain so-called “addiction memory,” which are neural responses linked to the previous experience.

• Psychological and emotional stress

Recovery from addiction does not mean that life stresses go away.

• The influence of the surrounding environment

The environment in which the recovering person lives plays a crucial role in the success of the recovery journey.

• Social stigma

The recovering person may face prejudice or lack of trust from society or even from family, which may lead to social isolation, which may weaken their self-confidence and affect the course of their recovery.

• Rebuilding life

Addiction can cause job loss, deteriorate family relationships, and destroy financial stability.

• Persistent health problems

Some recovering people suffer from long-term effects of addiction, such as liver, heart, or memory problems, which require continuous medical follow-up, periodic examinations, and a healthy diet, in addition to exercising to improve overall health.

Book your consultation now at Well-being center At Al Mousa Specialist Hospital.

Tips for those recovering from addiction 

Important tips to help maintain recovery and reduce the risk of relapse:

1. Commitment to treatment and follow-up: Do not stop attending psychotherapy sessions or group support programs such as “NA” groups (Alcoholics Anonymous), even after a long period of recovery.
2. Stay away from triggers: Avoid people, places, and situations that remind you of the period of addiction, or that may provide you with an opportunity to use.
3. Manage stress in healthy ways: Learn to deal with stress through relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, meditation, or exercise.
4. Build a positive support network: Surround yourself with supportive people such as family, trusted friends, or recovery colleagues.
5. Set clear life goals: Set short- and long-term goals that help you focus on the future, such as completing school, getting a job, or improving your physical fitness.
6. Taking care of physical health: Follow a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and get good sleep.
7. Seek help when needed: If you feel weak or have a strong desire to return to addiction, do not try to face the matter alone.

Frequently asked questions

What are the symptoms of relapse of an addicted person?

These symptoms include:

• The return of the intense desire to use.
• Isolation from family and friends.
• Mood disturbance, increased anxiety or depression.
• Stop adhering to treatment or support groups.
• Gradual return to life behaviors before recovery.

When does the body return to normal after quitting drugs?

The period of time for the body to return to normal after leaving the pillow varies depending on the type of substance and the duration of use, but it often ranges from several weeks to several months, and some psychological effects may take longer to fully recover.

How long does a drug relapse last?

The duration of a drug relapse varies from person to person, but it often lasts from several days to several weeks, and may be longer if the person does not receive appropriate support and treatment.

In conclusion, dealing with a recovering addict requires a great deal of patience, psychological support, and respect, while providing a safe environment that encourages him to continue on the path to recovery and avoid relapse.

Sources

Recovery from Addiction – psychologytoday

What is addiction? – medicalnewstoday