Relapse and lapse are terms used to describe setbacks in recovery from addiction, but they represent different levels of severity and impact. Here’s a summary of the differences:
Relapse
- Definition: A relapse is a full-blown return to addictive behaviors in which finding and using alcohol or other drugs again becomes a priority.
- Behavior: It manifests as a significant setback in which the individual engages in the addictive behavior with intensity and regularity.
- Mindset: The individual continues to focus on secrecy, hiding, and dissociation from their recovery efforts.
- Impact: Relapse leads to feelings of failure, emotional detachment, and isolation. It often reignites the cycle of shame and keeps the person trapped in active addiction.
- Severity: Relapse involves a complete reversion to old behaviors, with a major disruption in the recovery process.
Lapse
- Definition: A lapse is a brief return to use followed quickly by cessation within a short period of time.
- Behavior: It is an isolated incident or minor slip-up, rather than a complete return to regular addictive behavior.
- Mindset: Although a lapse may feel like a setback, it does not carry the same weight of secrecy and dissociation as a relapse.
- Impact: A lapse is less harmful than a relapse. It can serve as a reminder to stay committed to recovery and can be used productively to reinforce the importance of support and commitment.
- Severity: A lapse has fewer negative connotations and is often viewed as a temporary and minor slip. However, if not handled properly, it can lead to relapse.