Not all drug addicts will necessarily relapse, but relapse is common among people with substance use disorders. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), drug addiction is a chronic disease, and like other chronic diseases, relapse is a possibility. In fact, relapse rates for drug addiction are similar to those of other chronic diseases, such as hypertension and asthma. However, with proper treatment and ongoing support, it is possible to achieve and maintain recovery. It is important for individuals struggling with addiction to receive evidence-based treatment and to develop a long-term plan for their recovery.
