Relapse to substance use: A concept analysis

Area of Science:

• Addiction Medicine
• Psychology
• Public Health

Background:

• Relapse is a common concept in addiction literature.
• Current definitions of relapse lack standardization, leading to confusion, inconsistency, and stigma.
• A clear, comprehensive definition of relapse is needed for effective addiction treatment and research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To clarify the meaning of relapse in the context of substance use.
• To develop a comprehensive, standardized definition of relapse using concept analysis.
• To identify key attributes, antecedents, and consequences of relapse.

Main Methods:

• Concept analysis using Walker and Avant's method.
• Literature search across CINAHL, PsychINFO, and PubMed databases.
• Identification and synthesis of key attributes defining relapse.

Main Results:

• Three core attributes of relapse were identified: interruption of abstinence, vulnerability to substance-related cues/behaviors, and transition to progression or regression.
• A conceptual model of relapse was constructed, defining it as a transition in recovery, prompted by a return to substance use despite the intention to abstain.
• Antecedents and consequences of relapse attributes were detailed.

Conclusions:

• A standardized definition of relapse is crucial for minimizing confusion, inconsistency, and stigma in addiction.
• This comprehensive definition aids in developing relapse-sensitive care, accurate assessment, and evaluation methods.
• Improved understanding of relapse supports better patient outcomes and reduces societal stigma.