The Risk of Relapse is Real, Especially Among College Students

For someone who has struggled with substance abuse and addiction, there is no better feeling in the world than getting through treatment, getting sober, and living a clean and healthy lifestyle. 

Yet, relapse rates for addiction are  40-60% within the first year after recovery. 

The risk is even greater for college students who have overcome addiction in the past. 

People can easily make light of relapse, referring to it as “falling off the wagon” or “slipping up”. Some former addicts might even think it’s not a big deal to have a drink here and there or use a particular drug again. 

Unfortunately, relapsing just once is a slippery slope and can cause you to fall right back into old, dangerous habits. It’s nothing to take lightly. 

Let’s look at some of the common causes of relapsing, especially for college students, and how you can protect yourself and stay clean. 

Stress and Mental Health Problems

College students and stress tend to go hand-in-hand. Whether you’re moving away from home for the first time or you’re struggling with grades, a campus job, and a social life, stressful situations are everywhere. 

Many addicts use their substance of choice to “cope” with things – including stress. Others try to numb the pain of depression or the fear of anxiety. Since those issues are often heightened in college, it’s tempting to want to feel the euphoric highs of using again. But, doing so can completely derail your college career – and your life. 

Most campuses across the country have mental health services available, including counselors and therapists. If the stress or worry is becoming too much for you, turn to your resources before turning to drugs or alcohol again. 

Additionally, consider asking a friend or roommate to be an advocate for you, and “stop” you whenever you’re considering using. Having someone on your side to fight for you will help when you’re at your weakest moments. 

The Wrong People

While certain people can help you in preventing a relapse, others can put you at a greater risk. 

There are plenty of stereotypes surrounding drinking and drug use in the college atmosphere. But, if you’re a former addict, it’s important to stay away from that lifestyle. Unfortunately, if your friends want to “party” or are into drugs and alcohol, themselves, they might try to influence you to get back into it. 

It’s hard not to give in to peer pressure, even when you’re in college. But, the best thing you can do for yourself is to stop spending so much time with those individuals. Instead, look for people who aren’t interested in the party lifestyle and who will help you to avoid the things that caused your addiction in the first place. 

Not Enough Self-Care

While college and parties might go hand-in-hand, college and self-care often don’t. Many college students don’t get enough sleep, don’t eat properly, and don’t get enough exercise. 

Most people might be able to get away with that, even if it affects their physical and mental health a bit. But, if you’ve previously recovered from an addiction, self-care is crucial. 

When you don’t take care of yourself – mentally and physically – you could be putting yourself back into that “addiction” mindset and fall back into old habits. So, make self-care a priority every day, even by doing small things that benefit your well-being. 

College can be difficult for a recovering addict. But, it’s not impossible to get through it without relapsing. Make sure you understand the risks along the way. Doing so will help you to create a plan of action so you can stay clean, sober, and supported throughout your collegiate career. If you are worried about relapse, please contact us so we can support you.