Reducing risk of returning to use

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Understanding reuse

Recovery is not always a straight path, and everyone's experience is different. Sometimes, people return to substance use after a period of reducing or stopping. This can happen for many reasons, and it does not erase the progress you've made or the strengths you've developed along the way.

Life experiences, stress, emotions, physical health, and our surroundings can all influence how we feel. Understanding which moments are more challenging can help you prepare and identify the support that works best for you.

Some common experiences or situations that may increase the likelihood of returning to use include:

Feeling physically unwell or experiencing withdrawal symptoms
Not getting enough sleep, food, or rest
Spending time around people or in places connected to past substance use
Experiencing strong emotions, such as anger, loneliness, sadness, or exhaustion
Navigating stressful relationships or major life changes
Feeling disconnected from others or lacking support
Experiencing changes in routines or activities that help you feel supported

Not everyone experiences these challenges in the same way. What matters most is understanding your own experiences and recognizing what helps you feel safe, supported, and empowered.

Creating a plan that works for you

If reducing or stopping substance use is one of your goals, having a plan can help you feel more prepared when challenges arise.

Your Peer Recovery Specialist can work alongside you to create a personalized plan that reflects your goals, strengths, preferences, and the support available to you.

Here are a few questions you can explore together:

What situations or experiences feel challenging for me? Think about people, places, emotions, or circumstances that may affect how you're feeling.
What helps me feel supported during difficult moments? This might include connecting with someone you trust, taking a break, changing your surroundings, or using a coping strategy that works for you.
How do I recognize when I may need additional support? You might notice changes in your mood, sleep, routines, or desire to connect with others.
What steps would I like to take when things feel difficult? Consider small, realistic actions that feel manageable and align with your goals.

Your plan is yours. It can change as your needs, goals, and circumstances change.

If an urge shows up

Experiencing an urge to use can be a normal part of recovery. Urges may feel intense, but they can change in strength and often become more manageable with time and support.

There is no single right way to respond. What works for one person may not work for another. Here are a few approaches you might find helpful:

Connect with someone you trust. Talking with a friend, family member, Peer Recovery Specialist, or someone on your care team can help you feel supported.
Try a change of scenery. Going for a walk, stepping outside, listening to music, or doing an activity you enjoy may help shift your focus.
Focus on the present moment. You don't have to figure everything out at once. Sometimes focusing on the next few minutes or one small step can make things feel more manageable.
Practice self-care in a way that works for you. Resting, breathing exercises, eating something, or taking time for yourself may help you feel more grounded.

Remember, experiencing an urge or returning to use does not define you or your recovery. You deserve support, compassion, and access to care at every stage of your journey.