A relapse doesn’t mean treatment failed
NIDA says relapse can be part of the process for some people, because addiction is a chronic condition. It compares relapse rates for substance use to those for other chronic illnesses such as high blood pressure and asthma. When someone relapses, NIDA says it means they need to talk with their doctor to restart treatment, adjust it or try something else.
That doesn’t make it less painful. You may feel angry, heartbroken or foolish for hoping. All of that is normal. Try to hold on to one thing: your loved one has done recovery before, and that experience still counts.
The overdose risk after time away from use
This is the most important thing on this page. After a period of not using, such as after detox, rehab, jail or a hospital stay, the body loses its tolerance. NIDA warns that if a person uses as much as they did before, they can easily overdose. With fentanyl in the drug supply, this risk is serious.
- Keep naloxone (Narcan) at home. The FDA approved Narcan nasal spray for over-the-counter sale in March 2023, so you can buy it at a pharmacy without a prescription. See our naloxone page for local options.
- Know the signs of an opioid overdose: very small pupils, not waking up or not responding, slow or stopped breathing, and blue or gray lips or fingertips.
- If you see them, call 911, give naloxone and stay with the person. Naloxone can wear off, so they still need medical care.
- Encourage your loved one not to use alone. Even if you hate the idea of them using at all, this can save a life.
What to do in the first days
Safety first
If there is any sign of overdose or danger, call 911. If your loved one is in emotional crisis, call or text 988. Get naloxone into the house.
Talk calmly
Wait until they are sober. Say you love them and you’re not giving up. Skip the lecture. Ask what happened and what they think would help.
Reconnect with care
Call their counselor, doctor or aftercare program. They may need more support for a while, such as more sessions or a higher level of care.
Don’t stop medications on your own
If your loved one takes medication for a substance use disorder, they shouldn’t stop or change it without talking to their doctor.
What helps after a relapse, and what doesn’t
Often helps
- Calm, honest words: “I’m scared, and I’m on your side”
- Help getting back to a counselor or doctor quickly
- Keeping the boundaries you set before
- Looking at what led up to it, without blame
Often doesn’t help
- Shaming: “After everything we did for you?”
- Pretending it didn’t happen
- Dropping every boundary out of fear
- Deciding that treatment “doesn’t work” for them
Getting back into treatment
A relapse can show that the plan needs to change. Maybe outpatient care wasn’t enough support, or a mental health condition needs more attention. A doctor or intake team can help decide whether to step back up to intensive outpatient care, residential care or another option. Our aftercare guide covers ongoing support.
If your loved one refuses help and is in danger, Florida’s Marchman Act may be an option. And please don’t forget yourself: caring for yourself and family support groups can carry you through this. All our family guides are on the help for families page.
Outpatient and IOP programs near Jacksonville
Free listings, checked against Florida DCF. Sponsored listings are always labeled.
Design Recovery
3000 3rd St S, Jacksonville Beach
Lakeview Health
3227 Southside Blvd, Jacksonville
Lakeview Health Outpatient
4496 Southside Blvd, Jacksonville
New Season Treatment Center (Duval)
590 Ellis Road South, Jacksonville
New Season Treatment Center (Jacksonville)
4427 Emerson Street Bldg 4, Jacksonville
Ron Cipriano & Associates Counseling
9471 Bay Meadows Rd Suite 301, Jacksonville
Sophros Recovery
2511 Saint Johns Bluff Rd S Suite 105/106, Jacksonville
Relapse questions
Is relapse normal after rehab?
It is common. NIDA says relapse can be part of the process for some people and doesn’t mean treatment has failed. It is a sign to restart, adjust or change treatment.
Why is overdose more likely after a relapse?
After time without using, the body loses tolerance. A dose the person used to take can now be too much. That is why naloxone and not using alone matter so much after detox, rehab or jail.
Where can I get Narcan in Jacksonville?
Narcan nasal spray is sold over the counter at pharmacies, without a prescription. Some community programs give it out free. See our naloxone guide.
Should my loved one go back to rehab after a relapse?
Maybe. Some people need a higher level of care for a while, and others need changes to their outpatient plan. Their doctor or counselor can help decide.
How do I talk to my loved one after they relapse?
Wait until they are sober, keep your voice calm and lead with care, not blame. Ask what they think would help. Our page on how to talk to a loved one has more ideas.