If you’ve had a relapse, you’re not alone—and you’re not a failure. Recovery isn’t a straight line. It’s a journey with highs, lows, and everything in between. A relapse is just a bump in the road, not the end of it.
Relapse is Normal
Relapse can feel tough, especially if you’ve been doing well. You might feel like you’ve let yourself or others down—but you haven’t. It doesn’t erase your progress or mean you’ve gone back to square one. It’s a moment to pause, reflect, and continue forward.
Recovery is all about learning. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about resilience. A relapse is an opportunity to:
- Explore new coping strategies
- Learn more about your triggers
- Show yourself that you’re not giving up
- Let others know how they can support you better
Should I Tell Someone?
Talking about your relapse is your choice. You might feel like hiding it from your loved ones or support network—and that’s okay. But sharing it could really help.
If you’re in treatment, try and speak to your keyworker. They’re not here to judge—they’re here to help. Telling us about your relapse allows us to support you better. We can:
- Help you understand what triggered the relapse
- Offer tools and techniques to manage cravings
- Explore relapse prevention medication, if appropriate
Everything you tell us is confidential. We’ll only share information if we’re worried about your safety.
It’s Okay to Ask for Help
If you’re not in treatment right now, this might be a good time to reach out. You’ve already shown incredible strength by getting this far. Let us help you with the next steps.
At Wirral Ways, we’re a free and confidential service. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been managing on your own, we’re here for you. You’ll find understanding, support, and a safe space to move forward.
Join a Relapse Prevention Group
We run friendly, welcoming relapse prevention groups. These sessions give you the tools to:
- Recognise and manage your triggers
- Distract yourself when cravings hit
- Build your confidence and resilience
You’ll also meet others who are going through similar experiences. Peer support is a powerful thing—knowing you’re not alone can make a huge difference.
How to Get Support
Getting referred is quick and easy. You can be referred by a professional, or you can self-refer in a way that suits you:
- Phone: Call us on 0151 556 1335
- Email: Email us on wirral.services@cgl.org.uk
- In Person: Drop into one of our hubs