It’s a question many people in recovery ask themselves: “Why do I keep drinking when I promised myself I wouldn’t?” Breaking a promise to yourself can feel frustrating and disheartening, but it’s important to approach this with understanding rather than judgment. Relapse is a part of many recovery journeys, and identifying the underlying reasons can be a powerful step toward growth.
We asked this question to our Twitter community, and here are some of the most common responses we received, along with insights to help you better understand and address these challenges.
Why Do Some People Keep Drinking: 5 Most Common Answers
1. Curiosity
For some, drinking again stems from curiosity or a desire to revisit how it felt. After a period of sobriety, the memory of what drinking was like may fade, and taking “just one” sip doesn’t seem like a big deal.
What to consider:
Remember that relapse is not a reflection of failure, but rather a signal to reassess your coping mechanisms. Curiosity is natural, but it’s essential to weigh the potential consequences of drinking against your long-term goals. Instead of indulging in alcohol, consider journaling or talking to a trusted friend about these feelings.
2. The “I Don’t Know” Factor
Sometimes, people relapse without fully understanding why. It might feel like a spur-of-the-moment decision, but there’s usually an underlying thought or emotion driving the behavior.
What to consider:
Take time to reflect on your triggers. What were you feeling or thinking before you decided to drink? Identifying these patterns can help you develop strategies to address them in the future. Tools like Soberlink can also assist in building accountability and awareness, giving you the support you need.
3. Boredom
Boredom is a common reason people return to drinking. Without meaningful activities or hobbies, evenings and weekends can feel empty, especially if your social circle revolves around alcohol.
What to consider:
Explore new activities that align with your interests. Whether it’s picking up a hobby, learning a new skill, or joining a community group, finding ways to stay engaged can significantly reduce the urge to drink. Remember, confidence comes from doing, not drinking.
4. Revisiting the Past
Some people relapse because they’re curious about who they were before sobriety. They might wonder if they were more fun or carefree when they drank, even though this perception is often inaccurate.
What to consider:
Alcohol is a chemical that alters brain function; it doesn’t enhance your personality. Instead of romanticizing the past, focus on the qualities you’ve developed since becoming sober. Reflect on how far you’ve come and the positive changes you’ve made.
5. Unmet Needs and Life Skills
Sometimes, drinking highlights unmet emotional needs or areas where life skills could be improved. It might be your brain’s way of signaling something deeper, such as loneliness, stress, or unresolved trauma.
What to consider:
View relapse as an opportunity to learn. What need were you trying to meet by drinking? How can you address that need in a healthier way? Whether it’s through therapy, self-care, or connecting with a support group, take steps to build the skills and resources you need to thrive.
Conclusion
There are countless reasons why someone might relapse, and everyone’s journey is unique. The key is to approach these moments with compassion and curiosity rather than judgment. Use them as opportunities to understand yourself better and make adjustments to your recovery plan.
These are just a few insights we gathered from our Twitter community. Why do you think people return to drinking after making a commitment to stop? Share your thoughts or stories with us—we’d love to hear from you.