Identifying Chronic Relapse: Damaged Relationships in the Cycle of Addiction
Chronic relapse leaves a trail of damaged relationships in its wake. Sometimes it takes time – even years – for the damage to heal, and even then it may leave scars.
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Burning Tree Ranch is a specialty program dedicated to the treatment of chronic addiction and mental health. Our program is long-term, progress-based, and highly intensive.
Our Story in Photos & VideosChronic relapse leaves a trail of damaged relationships in its wake. Sometimes it takes time – even years – for the damage to heal, and even then it may leave scars.
Unsurprisingly, emotional instability is one of the most challenging aspects accompanying a chronic addiction. How do we qualify what emotional instability is related to an addiction and which behaviors are a normal stress response?
One of the most telling signs of chronic relapse is the number of treatment programs an individual has been through. When assessing a loved one’s addiction severity, we often ask families, “How many treatment centers has your loved one attended?”
Dear Families, I often meet you after the whirlwind that ends with your loved one arriving at Burning Tree Ranch. I meet you in the space between relief that your loved one made it into long term treatment and fear that they won’t stay long enough to accept the help being offered. It is in this space that our treatment team will begin construction of something new with you.
I’ve spent many years working with families in addiction, and have heard this question countless times: “Why didn’t the 12 steps work for me?” It’s a common refrain, especially from those who’ve struggled with chronic relapse and have already attended multiple rehab programs.
Why do short-term rehab programs so often fail chronic relapsers? The truth is, while these programs can be effective for some people, they are simply not designed to meet the complex needs of those with the most severe, long-standing addictions.
Recovery from addiction is a highly personal journey that varies in length for each individual. Long-term treatment offers comprehensive support for lasting sobriety.
Dear Families, When I started this letter for Burning Tree families I thought about what I would have wanted to hear when I was at the point you are at now. What words of wisdom could someone give me? It wasn’t more addiction horror stories; you’ve experienced that firsthand.
Dual diagnosis is a term that many families may have heard but don’t fully understand. Put simply, dual diagnosis refers to the co-occurrence of a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder in the same individual. As a LCDC, I can assure you that dual diagnoses are fairly common and understanding the nature of the diagnosis is the first step for families seeking help for their loved ones.
Dear Families, My name is Caroline, and I am a recovering alcoholic. My sobriety date is May 21, 2015. Here is my story.
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Disclaimer: Burning Tree Ranch aims to enhance the quality of life for individuals battling substance use and mental health disorders through well-researched and professionally reviewed content. Our publications focus on the nature of behavioral health conditions, available treatments, and their outcomes. Reviewed by licensed experts, our material is informative but not a replacement for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a licensed health provider for any medical or clinical concerns.