A brief return to substance use after a period of abstinence, before it turns into a full-blown relapse.
In the context of addiction treatment:
Many programs distinguish a lapse (short, quickly responded to) from a relapse (full return to old patterns); both matter, but a lapse can be a learning moment.
What to know:
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Lapses are common and can be used to strengthen a recovery plan.
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Shame after a lapse is a major risk factor for turning it into a full relapse.
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“Fall down, get up” — the key is how quickly you reach out and re-engage support.
Example:
Someone with 60 days clean drinks one night at a party, tells their sponsor immediately, and gets back to meetings and therapy the next day.