It is common practice to communicate with patients that even when a person with SUD is in remission and no longer using substances, a relapse is always a possibility. Just as it is with every patient struggling with a chronic medical condition, the goal during an exacerbation is to restore the patient to stability and keep them motivated and connected to treatment. However, when helping professionals who are both providing care and in recovery themselves experience relapse, reactions vary. These reactions are often driven by negative stigma and impact treatment decisions for both professionals and patients in recovery.
Presenters: Samson Teklemariam, LPC, CPTM