What Percentage of Addicts Relapse After Rehab?

Statistics on Relapse After Rehab

Questions asked by every addict entering recovery and the people who care about them often involve what percentage of addicts relapse after rehab, and what percentage of addicts stay clean for a lifetime?

No one, not the addicts themselves, or their family members or the friends who have stood steadfastly by their sides, wants to think their efforts and hard work will be for naught, and they naturally have concerns about the effectiveness of the paths they are about to walk down.

It is essential to realize that addiction is seen as a chronic medical condition, and that means the recovery rate can vary depending on several different factors. Overall, the percentage of recovering addicts who relapse in the first year ranges from 40 to 60 percent, a rate similar to the relapse percentages for other chronic medical conditions, including high blood pressure and diabetes.

While this percentage of recovering addicts relapsing may seem high, it does not have to be cause for alarm. This statistic also means that roughly half of recovering addicts stay clean while living happy, safe, and successful lives. If you are dedicated to your recovery and willing to develop the coping skills you need, there is no reason why you cannot beat the odds and stay drug-free for a lifetime.

What Is Relapse?

Numerous questions and misconceptions surround relapse and what percentage of addicts stay clean. The term relapse simply refers to what happens when a recovering addict fails to remain sober and begins using drugs again. No matter what form it takes, relapse can be devastating for both the addict and their loved ones.

The formerly recovering addict may think they have failed, and their family members may despair, assuming all their efforts have been in vain. It is important to note, however, that this is not the case. Every rehab experience and even every relapse can be a learning experience, and many who have relapsed go on to recover fully, building better and fully sober lives.

If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, call WhiteSands Alcohol and Drug Rehab today at 877.969.1993 to learn how we can help. 

Why Does Relapse Occur?

There are many reasons why a recovering addict might relapse, which can impact what percentage of addicts stay clean since no two relapses are the same. Some of the factors that could make relapse more likely include:

• A death in the family
• Job losses
• Financial strain
• Relationship breakup or divorce
• Being surrounded by old friends who are still drug users
• A simple moment of weakness
• Isolation and loneliness
• The collapse of a support structure, like the breakup of a 12-step meeting

If an Addict Relapses, Does it Mean Treatment Wasn’t Effective?

There is a widespread misconception that relapse means the drug or alcohol treatment received was ineffective or inadequate, but that is not necessarily the case. There are many reasons an addict may relapse, from experiencing a sudden trauma to being hospitalized and given painkillers.

While ineffective drug and alcohol treatment is more likely to lead to relapse, the simple fact that an addict relapses does not necessarily mean the rehab they received was not high quality. In fact, many addicts end up relapsing a few times before they achieve a lifelong recovery, and you should never assume that previous failures mean you cannot stay drug-free.

How to Have the Best Chance of Staying Clean After Rehab

Luckily, several actions can be made to help recovering addicts improve their odds of a successful recovery, and taking the right steps before, during, and after rehab can set the stage for a lifetime of drug-free living.

For those with a dual diagnosis, addressing the root causes of those addictions, including past trauma, abuse, and unresolved childhood issues, can help a lot, as can attending sessions designed to heal those wounds and allow you to develop the coping skills you will need in the outside world.

Learning how to identify, avoid, and overcome your personal triggers is vital in developing a comprehensive relapse prevention plan. Everyone has different triggers, and learning to find them is a big part of life during and after rehab.

Staying active can help a great deal as well. The more engaged and active you stay in rehab and afterward, the easier it will be to maintain your newfound sobriety. All of these scenarios can set you up for a lifetime of success, so you can worry less about relapse and enjoy your sobriety.

Addiction Treatment at WhiteSands Alcohol and Drug Rehab

Getting clean and staying clean can be two different challenges, but the quality of the rehab you receive will make a big difference in your recovery’s short-term and long-term success. If you are ready to put your drug or alcohol dependency in the rearview mirror, our staff at WhiteSands Alcohol and Drug Rehab is here to help, and all it takes is a single phone call.

At our residential facilities around Florida, we provide private rooms, luxurious surroundings, delicious food, and treatment that caters to the privacy, comfort, and dignity you deserve. We know you can achieve the lasting recovery you deserve, and we are ready to be your partner in this life-changing effort.

If you or a loved one needs help with abuse and/or treatment, please call the WhiteSands Treatment at (877) 855-3470. Our addiction specialists can assess your recovery needs and help you get the addiction treatment that provides the best chance for your long-term recovery.