Having a relapse can be one of the most distressing events on the pathway to healing.  Your time clean and sober would have restored some confidence and faith in yourself.  And then, sometimes seemingly out of nowhere – there you go again.  In addition to your despair you may have people around you who are criticising and doubting your ability to heal.  There may be a big dramatic song and dance going on inside your head or inside your home.

If you are not careful, this relapse could shake your foundations and begin a slide down the mountain.  Plant your stakes in the ground quickly and hang on tight.  It is not really important that the relapse has happened.  It has passed and you can't change it.  The most important thing is what you do next.