Relapse After Addiction Treatment How to Handle It Psychologically Dr. Wael Kamal
Published on: 2025-06-18 | Written by: Dr. Wael Kamal, Consultant Psychiatrist and Addiction
After a long journey of recovery from addiction, some individuals may experience what’s known as a relapse—a moment of weakness where the person returns to drug use. This phase doesn’t mean failure, but is often a common part of the recovery path. In this article, Dr. Wael Kamal, Consultant in Psychiatry and Addiction Treatment, explains how to deal with relapse psychologically with awareness and without losing hope.
What Is a Relapse?
A relapse is the return to drug use or addictive behavior after a period of abstinence and recovery. According to Dr. Wael Kamal, relapse doesn’t mean the end of treatment—it’s a sign that certain psychological or social factors need reevaluation and support.
Psychological Causes of Relapse
As Dr. Wael Kamal explains, several factors can lead to relapse, including:
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Exposure to psychological stress or feelings of frustration.
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Lack of family or social support.
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Overconfidence without a proper preventive plan.
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Not following up regularly with mental health support.
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Being in an environment that encourages substance use.
Difference Between Relapse and Temporary Slip
| Comparison | Relapse | Temporary Slip |
|---|---|---|
| Return to substance | Yes | No, only thoughts or tendencies |
| Duration | Long-term, requires urgent action | Short and manageable |
| Psychological impact | Strong, needs intensive therapy | Less severe, manageable |
How to Cope with Relapse Psychologically
Dr. Wael Kamal confirms that how one responds to relapse determines the next steps in recovery. Some key psychological tips include:
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Avoid self-blame: Relapse is not failure, but an opportunity to better understand personal triggers.
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Acknowledge it quickly: Reach out to your therapist or treatment team immediately for support.
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Analyze the situation: What led to the relapse—stress, lack of support, absence of follow-up?
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Resume treatment: Adjusting the treatment plan or increasing psychological support may be necessary.
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Learn from it: Use the relapse as a learning experience to avoid future setbacks.
When to See a Psychiatrist After Relapse?
Dr. Wael Kamal, Consultant in Psychiatry and Addiction Treatment, recommends seeing a doctor immediately if you feel the urge to use again or lose control. Early intervention makes a significant difference in preventing full relapse.