Addiction relapses in summer are common. The heat arrives, holidays begin, and the atmosphere becomes more relaxed and laid-back. The goal is to disconnect, enjoy oneself, and break from routine. What often happens is that people tend to let their guard down and become more permissive. It feels like everything is justified because “we are on vacation.”
The acceptance and normalization of excesses in summer pose a problem for individuals who have undergone or are currently undergoing a detoxification process, as they will have a higher chance of reoffending and relapsing into their addiction. Even if there hasn’t been a substance abuse disorder, due to the numerous stimuli we are exposed to, substance abuse can occur, leading from abuse to dependence, and finally to the development of an addiction. If you believe these dates could be a problem for you or someone close to you, do not hesitate to ask for help. Do not allow a relapse to occur. Stay one step ahead and act proactively: contact CCAdicciones.
Why are there more addiction relapses in summer?
A relapse is a return to toxic consumption habits, whether of substances or addictive behaviors. It is a regression to patterns that had been minimally overcome. It is common for relapses to occur while the person is undergoing a detoxification and recovery process, although certain elements contribute to a relapse.
The summer months pose a risk for addicts or ex-addicts. It can even be a period of disarray that leads to future addictions. During June, July, and August, social interactions increase. During the summer season, there are more get-togethers with friends for beers in the sun on a terrace, people attend more parties, music festivals, events… These are environments where it is common to see legal and illegal drugs. Especially alcohol, which seems to be an element always present in celebrations. Summer schedules are more disorganized, more flexible, which also contributes to chaos and drug consumption because responsibilities and obligations take a backseat.
It might be thought that relapses are more common for substance addictions due to the summer atmosphere and all it entails. However, behavioral addictions, i.e., non-substance addictions, also increase. The increase in free time during the holiday season leads to the compulsive repetition of addictive behaviors.
5 Tips to Prevent Addiction Relapses in Summer
Relapses in summer are common because habits, customs, and daily routines change. There are some recommendations to follow to avoid relapsing in summer. Some suggestions from CCAdicciones are:
1. Engage in healthy activities
that are completely unrelated to addictions. Reading, playing sports, drawing, going for walks… It can be any activity that sparks the person’s interest. The idea is to engage in healthy leisure that will help the person stay away from addictions because they will be entertained and occupied. Additionally, it will provide motivation and positive energy. They will feel good, and the need to consume will decrease.
2. Stay away from threatening situations
Never let your guard down. Do not think that you are ready, that having one drink will not matter, that going to places associated with drug use will not mean a relapse, that you can go with people who consume without consuming yourself… Avoid exposing yourself to situations where you are unsure if you can maintain control. Therefore, it is best to avoid any circumstance that could jeopardize all progress made so far.
3. Establish a certain order.
Amidst the disarray of summer and the desire for no routines, it is still recommended to maintain some order, even if minimal. It is symbolic of not having a feeling of lack of control and chaos. These are two elements that characterize addictions.
4. Always keep the addiction in mind.
To prevent relapses, it is advisable not to forget that addiction is a chronic illness that will be present throughout life. It can be helpful to maintain contact during holidays with people who help remember the importance of not relapsing into the world of addictions again, or with those going through a similar process to help each other.
5. Seek professional help.
Anticipate potential risks and seek help before it happens if you detect that a relapse into an addiction during the summer season is likely. Ultimately, receiving help from a specialized team in addiction is the best guarantee for preventing addictions.
Relapse: Another Element in the Recovery Process
A substance abuse disorder requires detoxification treatment to undergo a process and learn the necessary tools to say no to drug use or addictive behavior. It allows for replacing bad habits with healthy ones and knowing how to react to dangerous situations. However, treatment does not end once detoxification is complete and the person leaves the center. Addiction requires continuous work.
Anyone who has suffered from an addiction is not exempt from experiencing a relapse. In fact, it is normal for a relapse to occur at some point during the recovery process or shortly thereafter. A relapse does not mean that the treatment has failed. It does not indicate that the individual is back at square one. It does not mean that they cannot recover from their addiction. It simply means that addiction is an illness that requires extensive time for rehabilitation.
Symptoms of a Relapse
The warning signs of a possible addiction relapse are:
- Obsessive thoughts. The person cannot stop thinking about the addiction and again feels the need to consume or engage in the addictive behavior.
- Social isolation.
- False confidence that leads to neglecting the detoxification process and failing to comply with elements that are part of recovery.
- Insomnia, discomfort, and restlessness
- Defensive attitude. This, in turn, fuels a poor relationship with their immediate environment, and arguments increase.
There is always a way out
To prevent addiction relapses in summer, CCAdicciones offers its services. It is a detoxification clinic for addictions and dual pathology, with health registration. Our medical team will advise you on the best treatment, taking into account your specific needs. With the necessary help, overcoming addiction and recovering from possible relapses is feasible. This is demonstrated by our 86% recovery rate. Get in contact with us, and we will provide information without any obligation. Remember, there is always a way out.
