Relapsing is not just using again, it’s a repeat of negative behaviours, says social worker

Recovering from addiction is not an easy journey, and relapse is often a part of this.

Relapse typically refers to either using substances again or a reoccurrence of behaviours that were present during active addiction, according to Janet Smit, a senior social worker from the Cape Town Drug Counselling Centre.

These behaviours can include lying, manipulation, or becoming complacent.

“We always tell people to look out for certain types of behaviour they notice that will take them back to using,” she adds.

While relapse can be extremely difficult, Smit says that this is not the end of a recovery journey and is often part of the process.

“Relapse is more common than not. Most people try six or seven times before they successfully manage to maintain recovery for a long period of time.”

She explains that a relapse is usually a sign that your treatment plan needs to be reviewed.

The festive periodcan be particularly challenging for people in recovery, but connecting with people healthily can help with this.

“The opposite of addiction is connection,” says Smit.

On Saturday, a recovery walk will take place in Cape Town, where people can get together to celebrate recovery and hope.

The walk will take place at Central Methodist Mission, Greenmarket Square, Cape Town CBD, from 10AM to 1PM.

To listen to Janet Smit, senior social worker from the Cape Town Drug Counselling Centre, in conversation with Pippa Hudson on CapeTalk, click the audio player for more: