A relapse can come at any time, usually because you don’t recognize the warning signs. Remember, a relapse is a process more than an event. It is imperative to recognize the signs, which include:
Returning to addictive thinking patterns
Engaging in compulsive, self-defeating behaviors
Seeking out situations involving people who are addicts
Thinking less rationally and behaving less responsibly
Finding yourself in compromised situations
You need to recognize the warning signs of relapse. And when you see them, respond accordingly. And if you do have a slip, know how to respond to that.
Recovery Step: Make the words of the Old Testament prophet your words today. Micah said, “Rejoice not over me, O my enemy; when I fall, I shall rise; when I sit in darkness, the Lord will be a light to me” (Micah 7:8).
Mark and Beth Denison, married for 36 years, launched There’s Still Hope as a national movement to call men and women into lives of sexual integrity. Their ministry offers 90-day recovery plans for addicts and one-on-one and group coaching for addicts and their spouses. TSH also produces resources for pastors and churches to confront the porn epidemic that is destroying so many lives.
Dr. Denison was a senior pastor for over 30 years, NBA chaplain, and board chairman at Houston Baptist University three times. With a Master’s Degree in Addiction Recovery, Mark is a certified PSAP and active member of the American Association of Christian Counselors.
Mark has written four books on recovery: Porn in the Pew, 365 Days to Sexual Integrity, A 90-Day Recovery Guide, and 40 Days to Porn-Free Living. His latest book, Jesus on the 12 Steps, will be released later this year.
