When someone you love has worked hard to get sober, a relapse can feel devastating for both of you. It may come with shock, anger, confusion, fear, or even guilt. But relapse is not the end of the road. It’s a detour, not a dead end. What matters most is how we respond, with compassion, clarity, and support.
At JADE Wellness Center, we understand that relapse is part of the recovery journey for many. Here’s how to show up for a loved one in the midst of a setback, without shame, judgment, or blame.
First: Understand What Relapse Really Means
Relapse isn’t a failure of willpower or a sign that treatment didn’t work. It’s a symptom of a chronic condition. Like other long-term illnesses, substance use disorder often involves periods of improvement and setbacks.
Relapse can be triggered by:
- Stress or trauma
- Mental health issues like depression or anxiety
- Overconfidence or underestimating triggers
- Lack of support or follow-up care
Recognizing that relapse is common and treatable can help you respond in a way that encourages your loved one to seek help again.
What To Say
“I’m here for you.”
Let your loved one know you support them, even if you’re upset or hurting. This reassurance can reduce shame and encourage honesty.
“You’re not alone.”
Remind them that many people in recovery experience setbacks and still go on to thrive.
“How can I help you take the next step?”
Offer tangible, forward-focused support. This might include researching treatment, setting up an appointment, or going with them to a meeting.
“Would you be open to talking to someone at JADE again?”
Gently encourage reconnecting with professional care. Don’t try to take it all on yourself.
What Not To Say
“I can’t believe you did this again.”
Shame only deepens the pain. Criticism may push them further away.
“You just have to want it more.”
Recovery isn’t about willpower alone; it’s about support, treatment, and a safe environment to heal.
“This always happens.”
Avoid generalizations that suggest your loved one will never change.
“You need to get your act together.”
Instead, focus on compassionately helping them reconnect with their goals and support systems.
Support Yourself, Too
Loving someone in recovery is not easy. You deserve support and education just as much as they do. Consider:
- Attending a family support group
- Joining JADE’s Family Matters Group
- Meeting with a counselor
- Setting and maintaining boundaries
Taking care of yourself helps you show up with more patience, clarity, and strength.
JADE Is Here to Help, At Every Stage
If someone you love has relapsed, it doesn’t mean they’ve failed. It means they need support, and that’s exactly what we provide.
At JADE Wellness Center, our outpatient programs offer a compassionate, evidence-based path forward. Whether it’s returning to therapy, restarting medication-assisted treatment, or engaging in group support, we’re here to help individuals and families reclaim stability and hope.
Serving Monroeville, Wexford, and the Greater Pittsburgh Area
myjadewellness.com
Relapse is not the end of the story. Healing is still possible, and you don’t have to face it alone.
