Winter Weather: A Relapse Risk For Those In Recovery

How To Avoid Relapsing In Inclement Weather

As a major snowstorm blankets much of the country, many people are being forced to stay indoors for extended periods. While this kind of event is stressful for everyone, it can pose unique and serious risks for people in recovery from addiction.

Inclement weather brings many things along with it. The accompanying power outages, isolation, anxiety, boredom, and uncertainty all disrupt everyday routines. For someone in recovery, that sudden loss of structure and support can significantly increase the risk of relapse.

How Bad Weather Can Trigger Relapse

During major storms, people in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction may experience:

• Increased anxiety and stress
• Loneliness and isolation
• Boredom and restlessness
• Disrupted recovery routines, like canceled support groups and therapy appointments
• Exposure to substances, if they are already in the home

For individuals who previously relied on drugs or alcohol to help manage these situations and feelings, these conditions can increase the risk of returning to unhealthy coping patterns in the form of substance use.

Seasonal Affective Disorder And Relapse

Winter months already carry a higher risk of relapse due to seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a form of depression linked to reduced daylight, colder temperatures, and social withdrawal. Data from the Psychiatry Research journal shows that depression, isolation, and stress are closely tied to substance use relapse, especially when support resources are limited or unavailable. Those who have experienced SAD and addiction together need to be especially vigilant, particularly during additional stress from a winter storm.

5 Ways To Avoid Triggers And Relapse During Bad Weather

If you’re currently riding out the storm, there are many ways to avoid triggers and relapse.

1. Stay Connected

One of the most disruptive factors in a storm is the interruption they cause to recovery support. While in-person meetings may be cancelled, many recovery organizations, like Alcoholics Anonymous and SMART Recovery, offer virtual support groups that remain available during severe weather. Logging into a meeting, even if it’s not with your usual group, can provide accountability and support.

2. Remove Or Avoid Substances In The Home

If drugs or alcohol are present in the home, it’s important that you take steps to eliminate your access to them. Ask a loved one to hold onto them if possible or move them out of sight and reach. This reduced access can be a helpful deterrent during high stress moments.

3. Stay Calm And Reduce Stress

While staying calm can be difficult during the uncertainty of a storm, it’s important to remain in control of your emotions and stress. You can meditate, exercise, or practice mindfulness techniques to slow things down.

4. Follow Health And Safety Guidance

During longer bouts of severe weather, it’s important to maintain physical health as well. For example, the American Red Cross advises people to drink plenty of warm fluids, while avoiding caffeine and alcohol, as both can increase dehydration and worsen anxiety. Staying hydrated, nourished, and well rested directly supports emotional regulation and reduces the desire to cope by using drugs and alcohol.

5. Keep Your Mind Engaged

For those in recovery, the increased downtime during a storm can fuel cravings for drugs and alcohol. When this happens, use it as an opportunity to explore a new hobby. You can start a new book or podcast. You can journal, try a new recipe, or tackle a new creative project. Whatever you choose to do, know that being intentional with your time can be a powerful tool for relapse prevention.

Get Help For Addiction

Remember, relapse is a normal part of recovery. If it happens, there are many ways to get back on track.

If you feel yourself craving drugs or alcohol, or if a relapse has already occurred, professional help is available. Adjusting your treatment plan and utilizing online therapy and virtual support groups are a few ways you can get back on track during difficult periods.

If you feel you need to return to rehab, there are options for that too. Visit our rehab directory or contact a treatment provider to explore your treatment options and get started today.

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