Misconceptions can be persistent and pervasive. In complicated topics and situations, communication often becomes a game of schoolyard telephone where the final product is garbled. Addiction and relapse are two such complicated topics that are marred by myths.

2. Myths About Relapse Can Be
Dangerous and Prohibitive
Here are 5 relapse myths that we need to dispel.

3. 1
MYTH
Relapse is a single event.

4. FACT
Contrary to popular belief, relapse is a process not
always a single event. During that process, the
recovering person will usually start thinking and
behaving the same way they did while in the grips
of their addiction.

5. 2
MYTH
Relapse Means Failure

6. FACT
A relapse cannot destroy all of the hard work
you’ve put into recovery thus far. Relapse is not
the end of your sobriety journey. No matter the
depth of your relapse, you CAN restore your
sobriety and get back on the right track.

7. 3
MYTH
People Who Relapse
Just Aren’t Motivated Enough

8. FACT
Mistakes happen, relapses happen. Conquering
addiction requires more than just motivation.
Relapse is a threat to everyone as the process can
be triggered by strong emotions, difficult
situations, or tempting environments.

9. 4
MYTH
Someone Who Relapses Just
Hasn’t Hit “Bottom” Yet

10. FACT
Thinking this way perpetuates the dangerous idea
that some people are not yet worthy of treatment.
There is no prerequisite “bottom”. You don’t owe
any particular amount of pain and suffering before
you’re worthy of recovery.

11. 5
MYTH
We shouldn’t talk about relapse.

12. FACT
To avoid relapse, you should know as much
about it as possible. Talk about it and talk about it
often. Tell the people in your life what a relapse
might look like and get them in your corner.
Help them help you.

13. Knowledge and honesty will be your best
weapons in the fight for sobriety. Understanding
the truth about relapse is the first step to
avoiding one.

14. Read more about the
vibrant recovery community at
www.soberlink.com