Understanding and Overcoming Relapse

Understanding and Overcoming Relapse: A Guide for High-Performing Men In this episode of the 'Kick the Habit Forever' podcast, licensed therapist, coach, and educator Michael Quirke delves into the understanding of relapse as a predictable cyclical process.

Drawing on 25 years of experience working with high-performing men, Michael breaks down relapse into three stages: emotional relapse, mental relapse, and physical relapse, focusing on the unique risks each stage presents.

He emphasizes the importance of self-care, recognizing high-risk situations, and offers practical recovery tools like relaxation techniques and cognitive behavior strategies. Michael also discusses common negative thoughts and beliefs that can hinder recovery and provides reflection questions to help viewers learn from their relapse experiences and strengthen their recovery process.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:43 Understanding Relapse as a Cyclical Process

01:12 Stage One: Emotional Relapse

05:18 Stage Two: Mental Relapse

10:29 Stage Three: Physical Relapse

11:28 Essential Tools for Recovery

15:29 Common Negative Thoughts and Beliefs

23:08 Post Acute Withdrawal Symptoms (PAWS)

31:36 Reflection and Moving Forward

36:07 Conclusion and Invitation