Family Programming Passport: Relapse Cycle & PAWS

Relapse prevention is important work for the whole family to engage in. As the loved one with substance use disorder begins to navigate life with a sober perspective, the family members begin to turn their focus back to their own goals, relationships and the things that bring purpose and meaning to their lives. Being preoccupied with our family member’s recovery can be detrimental to us and them over the long term. In the following handouts one can see how family members may return to patterned ways of responding and thinking and feeling within the family dynamics. Healing is a bumpy road and so compassion and grace for ourselves is a must.