"If we want to do something about the addiction problem in this country we have to stop shoving the same version of this story down people’s throats. I have some suggestions:
Relapse is part of recovery—We have to be better prepared.
Pretending that our clients will move forward without relapsing sets them up for unrealistic expectations. It also increases their shame when they slip. We need to be honest and prepare them. We must develop relapse prevention plans and a strong relationship with your clients that allow them to know they won’t be shamed if they stumble.
Drug users are not thinking coherently while under the influence—We need to know how to speak to them.
Talking to a person while they are high about the long term consequences of their actions is absurd. This is a time to speak their language and make sure they are safe. Save the preaching for some other time (like never).
Most people who experience a relapse get better—We have to stop selling them short.
Individuals who relapse should be encouraged to talk about it, examine the experience, and learn. Talking about relapses as events to fear terribly does not decrease their probability; it simply decreases the probability of us finding out about the relapse. Humans learn from mistakes and we should support that process among those who struggle with drugs and alcohol.
Not all users are ready to accept abstinence—We must have other options ready for them.
Dogma is nice. It’s easy to remember. It looks great on stickers. But if a drug user is not ready to quit, sending them back out to “get some more experience” or “reach their bottom” is dangerous. We should be offering any form of help they are willing to accept, not just the one we would most like to offer. “The easier, softer way” is all you will be able to provide sometimes. If you keep waiting for your preferred “more difficult, harder way” you might just be waiting to identify a body. That’s on us, not them."
See more
@Psychology Today