Steps to take after returning to alcohol or drug use

Posted: July 24, 2025

Research studies show that nearly 70% of individuals who are dependent on alcohol or opioids experience a relapse, also known as a return to use, within one year. While "relapse" is a commonly used term, many in the recovery community prefer "return to use" to better reflect the ongoing nature of recovery. [caption id="attachment_17990" align="alignright" width="450"] Friends and family can be your support through recovery or return to use.[/caption] A return to use can happen for a variety of reasons, including stress, lack of support or untreated mental health conditions. Justin Schoen, M.D., addiction psychiatrist with Marshfield Clinic, said anything can be a trigger, especially overwhelming circumstances. Examples may include:

• Sudden loss of a friend or family member
• Contact with law enforcement
• Seeing old friends who use substances
• Being in a place where they used to use substances
• Anniversaries of painful events

Because these stressful situations can happen unexpectedly, it's important to take care of your basic needs during addiction recovery and find a support system. Also, it is important to understand what type of events may trigger you to map out a plan. "Substance use disorder is just like any other medical diagnosis, such as diabetes or hypertension," Schoen said. "It is a disease of the brain. There should be no shame or guilt related to this or any other diagnosis."

Return to use is part of addiction recovery

If you find yourself wanting to return to use, first step is reach out for help. Call your counselor, sponsor or provider immediately to get back to the treatment you need. Marshfield Clinic partners with Family Health Center Inc. of Marshfield for various Alcohol and Drug Recovery Centers locations near you.

Support system for recovery

Friends and family can be your support through recovery or return to use. Schoen said best advice for friends and family members of someone who is recovering from substance use is "if you see something, say something." "Abnormal behaviors, appearances, actions or reactions can all be signs of concern," he said. "Even increased contact in past acquaintances can be a sign. It is important to say or ask something, if you see something that seems unusual." He recommended saying, "Is anything going on? I'm worried about you," to express concern. Schoen said isolation is a significant reason to worry. Starting with questions opens the conversation and shows the person you are genuinely concerned with their wellbeing.

Safety is top priority

In some instances, when a return to use has occurred, you may need to make sure that the person is medically safe.

• Do they need urgent or medical care?
• Do they need detoxification in a medically supervised setting?
• Are they suicidal? Does crisis intervention need to be involved?

These are all questions that need to be answered. Substance abuse with opioids can be a higher risk of overdose. The person's opiate receptors have been reset and their tolerance is much less after a period of sobriety. "A return to substance use can increase the risk of even worsening use than previously, potentially to the point of overdose," Schoen said. This is why safety of the person who returned to use is the most important. Call 911 in a medical emergency.

Sobriety is possible

Even if you have returned to substance use, recovery is a process. "Willingness to seek and engage is treatment is a strength," Schoen said. "Treatment is possible and effective." Schoen said that sometimes more intensive treatment is necessary and available. But overall, he advises to "never worry alone." "'I' can result in illness, ‘we' can result in wellness." If you are struggling with a substance use issue, talk to your primary care provider or contact Alcohol & Drug Recovery Center, Family Health Center of Marshfield, Inc. at 1-844-288-8324. [divider]

If you are struggling with substance use, reach out for support.

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