Treatment for an alcohol use disorder can be life-changing. People may decide to get help as they recognize their drinking is causing problems with work, health, or relationships. While in alcohol rehab and after abstaining from drinking, individuals sometimes think they can start drinking again. Known as a relapse, resuming the consumption of beer, wine, or liquor may cause potentially severe complications.
If you or someone you know is struggling with maintaining sobriety, Promises Behavioral Health can help. For over 20 years, we have provided world-class alcoholism treatment programs to individuals who want to overcome addiction. Call 844.875.5609 to learn how we can help you achieve and maintain lasting sobriety.
Why Do People Start Drinking Again?
Following a period of abstinence from alcohol, those in recovery may wonder, “Should I start drinking again?” Once a person has been sober for several weeks or months, they may think it’s okay to reintroduce alcohol into their life. Some may swear off hard liquor in favor of beer or wine. Others might vow not to drink before a particular time of day or on certain days of the week. These boundaries and schemes, they believe, will keep them on track and allow them to enjoy alcohol in a healthy, functional way. Perhaps it will work for a day or two or even longer. But in short order, the compromises, excuses, and justifications crowd in and derail those good intentions. Individuals may quickly return to where they started, experiencing addiction symptoms that harm their health and disrupt their lives.
What Are the Consequences of an Alcoholic Drinking Again?
If someone with an alcohol use disorder starts drinking again, it can have potentially severe consequences for their physical and mental health. Alcohol use increases the risk of health problems such as:
- High blood pressure
- Stroke or liver disease
- Cancer
- Heart disease
Drinking can also affect a person’s psychological well-being. Individuals with alcohol use disorder are vulnerable to developing depression or anxiety when they start drinking again. Furthermore, they may be at increased risk of engaging in dangerous activities such as driving while intoxicated or engaging in unprotected sexual activity.
In addition to the physical and mental health risks associated with drinking again after having an alcohol use disorder, individuals may also experience social consequences. They may become more isolated from friends and family or engage in increasingly risky behaviors that could result in legal trouble or financial hardship. They might also struggle with maintaining work productivity or engaging in healthy relationships due to the effects of relapse. The longer an individual goes without treatment after relapsing, the more difficult it will be to regain control over their behavior and avoid future relapses.
It is important to note that relapse is a normal part of the recovery process. Those who experience it should seek support from doctors, counselors, therapists, and support groups in a treatment program. These resources can help individuals safely manage their drinking behaviors and improve their overall quality of life.
Find an Alcoholism Treatment Program at Promises
If you or someone you love starts drinking again, turn to Promises. We provide comprehensive treatment services such as counseling, medication management, and peer support tailored to clients’ needs. We aim to equip you with the knowledge and skills to overcome addiction while promoting long-term recovery success.
At Promises Behavioral Health, we offer personalized care and ongoing support throughout your journey toward sobriety. Our compassionate clinicians will listen without judgment and develop an effective plan for rebuilding sobriety that works best for you. Contact us today at 844.875.5609 to learn more about how we can help you get on the path to wellness.