What are Relapse Dreams? 3 Things You Should Know
It’s no secret that getting quality sleep has a major impact on our overall health and well-being, but for people in recovery, falling asleep may not always be as relaxing as it sounds. Relapse dreams can be a common occurrence for both those progressing through addiction treatment and those maintaining their sobriety, but what are relapse dreams and what do they mean for your recovery? Let’s take a look.
What are Relapse Dreams?
A relapse dream is an intrusive or vivid dream in which someone in recovery dreams they have relapsed. A typical relapse dream will find the person dreaming about situations that mirror their experience as a user, in ways that might feel life-like or like a flashback. Upon awakening, they may be overcome with guilt, remorse, bewilderment, or panic. These experiences can make someone in recovery feel like their efforts have failed and that deep down they desire to use drugs or alcohol again, which can be an incredibly stressful experience for someone battling a substance use disorder.
Who Experiences Relapse Dreams?
A relapse dream can affect anyone who struggles with an addiction to drugs, alcohol, or even gambling. One study shows that an estimated ⅓ of adults in recovery report having relapse dreams after they discontinue their substance use and found these occurrences are more common for those in the early stages of their recovery. While these dreams can manifest at any stage of the process, the same study found that relapse dreams were more likely to occur for those whose experiences with drugs and alcohol had a severe or long-term impact on their lives. These dreams may also be triggered by stressful life events, like the loss of a loved one, chronic stress, or periods of intense emotional difficulty.
What to Do When a Relapse Dream Occurs
Experiencing a relapse dream can be a destabilizing and distressing experience for someone in recovery. It's important to remember that these events do not signify a desire to start using drugs or alcohol again, but rather they may represent a deep-seated fear of experiencing a relapse in waking life. As recovery progresses, it is likely these occurrences will become less frequent, but if you experience one in the meantime, here’s what to do when a relapse dream occurs:
Put it in Perspective
Relapse dreams can be disorienting and make you doubt your recovery progress. However, just because you succumbed to substance use in your dream does not mean it will happen in real life. If you feel fear or anxiety after a relapse dream, let this experience reassure you that you are feeling these emotions because you truly want to remain sober, not because you are on the wrong path or want to return to using drugs or alcohol.
Acknowledge Your Emotions
Dreams can share a direct connection to what we experience and many believe that our dreams serve a higher purpose in helping us make decisions and process the events of our daily lives. Try to reframe a relapse dream as a reminder that overcoming addiction requires consistent effort, efforts that must be practiced every day, in order to maintain your recovery. Relapse dreams may serve as a messenger to deeper emotions you are experiencing. Be mindful of these feelings and what in your life is making you feel this way.
Practice Good Sleep Hygiene
Distressing dreams may be more likely to occur when you are neglecting your sleep or not getting enough rest. That’s why it’s so important to develop positive sleeping habits in recovery. Strive to get a full night’s rest, limit distractions, and incorporate restful habits like meditation or journaling before you hop into bed. Clearing your mental space prior to sleep can lead to a more peaceful and comfortable slumber.
Seek Out Additional Support
Remember, the way you respond is a choice and you have made the powerful decision to choose a life without substances. Affirm the commitment you have made to your recovery and recall all the work you’ve put in so far. Remind yourself there is strength in asking for support—don’t be afraid to reach out for help if you’re finding it challenging to stay the course of your recovery.
With locations in Twin Falls and Gooding, Idaho, The Walker Center’s vast array of addiction and mental health services are individualized to meet the needs of many clients seeking help for alcohol and/or drug problems.
If you or a loved one is struggling with a substance use disorder, call 1- 800-227-4190 to speak with one of our certified addiction treatment professionals or reach out to us through our online contact form here.
