relapse

Relapse refers to the return of a condition or behavior after a period of improvement or recovery. Commonly discussed in contexts like addiction or chronic illnesses, a relapse occurs when someone who has been managing or overcoming a challenge, such as substance use or health issues, experiences a setback and returns to previous unhealthy habits or symptoms. Understanding relapse is crucial, as it highlights the process of recovery is often non-linear and requires ongoing support, management, and sometimes re-evaluating strategies for long-term success.