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Brad Sorte

The Phases and Warning Signs of Relapse

By Brad Sorte, MSW, MBA | Based on work by Terence Gorski


This paper aims to elucidate the intricate stages of relapse in addiction recovery, as delineated by Terence Gorski and Merlene Miller in their seminal work, "Staying Sober: A Guide for Relapse Prevention."

Man holding his head in his hands
Recognizing these signs early and seeking timely intervention is crucial in the journey of recovery and relapse prevention.

Grounded not in a singular empirical study but in the extensive clinical experience of Gorski, this model has been shaped by years of observing and treating individuals grappling with addiction. The methodology is an amalgamation of direct clinical observations, the integration of varied psychological and sociological theories on addiction, and the practical application of therapeutic techniques.


This document serves as a vital tool for individuals in recovery, offering a roadmap to identify and understand the subtle, often overlooked signs of relapse. By encouraging self-reflection and vigilance, it empowers readers to actively compare their thoughts and behaviors against the described stages. This process of self-assessment is crucial for fostering awareness and initiating timely interventions in their personal relapse prevention journey. Thus, this paper is not just an academic exploration but a practical guide, designed to be actively used as part of a comprehensive strategy for sustained recovery.


Understanding the Subtle Journey of Relapse Based on Terence Gorski's Model Terence Gorski's relapse prevention model provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the complex and often subtle journey towards relapse in individuals recovering from addiction. This model is rooted in the recognition that relapse is not an abrupt event but a gradual process with distinct stages, each characterized by specific thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Recognizing these stages early can be key in preventing a full relapse.


Denial and Dismissal: The Insidious Beginnings

The journey often begins quietly, with the return of denial. This is a phase where the recovering individual may start to downplay the severity of their addiction or question the necessity of continuous sobriety efforts. It is a deceptive stage, as it masks the underlying unease and fear about staying sober.


This denial is not always conscious; it can manifest as a subtle shift in attitude or perception, making it challenging to recognize.


Avoidance and Defense: The Shields Go Up

As these concerns grow, so does the tendency to avoid them. There's a shift towards defensive behavior, where the person may start to feel overconfident about their control over addiction, often leading to neglect of their recovery program. This stage is marked by a focus away from self-worrying about others' sobriety or becoming judgmental of their paths. The irony is that while they are busy scrutinizing others, they are often missing the signs of their own impending relapse.


Tunnel Vision and Plan Failures: The Crisis Builds

The next phase sees the emergence of life problems as a result of continued denial and avoidance. The individual starts to exhibit 'tunnel vision', focusing narrowly on specific aspects of life while missing the bigger picture. This skewed perspective leads to unrealistic planning and eventual failures, which in turn feed into a cycle of guilt and remorse.


Immobilization and Depression: The Deepening Quagmire

With growing problems comes a sense of immobilization. The individual may feel stuck, unable to initiate action or find motivation. This is closely followed by a phase of deepening depression, where daily routines start falling apart. Eating and sleeping habits become erratic, and there's a significant loss of structure in daily life. This period is characterized by overwhelming feelings of failure and hopelessness.


The Loss of Control: The Final Precursor to Relapse

As these stages progress, the individual's behavior starts becoming increasingly erratic. There's a decline in attending recovery meetings and an overall "I don't care" attitude. This is a crucial phase, as it indicates a severe weakening of the support structures that were aiding recovery. The individual might start to reject help openly, driven by a deep sense of dissatisfaction with life.


Recognition of Loss of Control: The Painful Awakening

Eventually, the denial breaks, and there's a painful recognition of the loss of control.

However, by this stage, the individual is often so isolated that there's no one to turn to for help. It's a phase filled with self-pity, thoughts of returning to substance use, and a profound loss of self-confidence.


The Narrowing Options: A Desperate Search for Escape

Feeling trapped and overwhelmed, the individual sees limited options for escape- substance use, insanity, or even suicide. It's a phase of intense loneliness and frustration, where the fears of losing control are at their peak.


Acute Relapse: The Inevitable Collapse

If unchecked, these stages culminate in an acute relapse episode, where the individual loses all control over their behavior. It's a crisis point that often leads to severe consequences, including health crises, psychiatric problems, and social isolation.


Conclusion: The Subtle Nature of Relapse

Gorski's model highlights the subtle and progressive nature of relapse. Each stage, seemingly inconsequential at the outset, gradually builds up, creating a complex web that traps the individual. The journey of relapse is deceptive; its signs are often not loud and alarming but quiet and insidious, making them hard to notice until it's too late.


Recognizing these signs early and seeking timely intervention is crucial in the journey of recovery and relapse prevention.


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