Written by Andrew John Tucker, LCSW
Researched by Corina Evi Tucker y de la Huerta
www.addictiontherapynyc.com
Roughly 40 to 60% of people treated for substance use disorders relapse at least once during recovery—similar to relapse rates for other chronic illnesses like diabetes, hypertension, or asthma (National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2018). But what determines whether someone spirals after a relapse or uses it as a pivot point often comes down to one thing: mindset.
This week, I came across three powerful reads that bring this concept into sharper focus:
- “The Framing Effect in Psychology: Why It Matters” by Kendra Cherry (Verywell Mind) explains how the way information is presented—the frame—can influence not only decision-making, but also our emotional reactions. The same event, seen through different language or perspective, can feel either overwhelming or empowering.
- “Mindsets Provide a Clearer Lens on Life” (Stanford News) reminds us that mindsets aren’t fixed—they’re lenses we can learn to adjust. If you’re convinced your past defines your future, that belief becomes the filter through which you view every choice.
- “Shifting Mindsets: What Does It Take?” by Gary Klein (Psychology Today) challenges us to disrupt rigid internal narratives by identifying the very moments when change is possible. Mindset shifts don’t just happen—they’re practiced.
In therapy—especially addiction work—this isn’t abstract. It’s daily survival strategy. The voices of shame, defeat, and self-judgment are loud, particularly in early recovery. But learning how to reframe thoughts can change the trajectory of someone’s day… or their life.
Three practical applications for recovery:
- Reframe relapse as data, not defeat. It’s not about “starting over”—it’s about learning what wasn’t working and adjusting with honesty and self-respect.
- Challenge identity statements like “I’m a screw-up” or “I’ll never get it right.” These are mindset traps masquerading as truth.
- Build cognitive flexibility. We work on this in session—practicing how to catch negative thought spirals early, ground ourselves in the moment, and choose a more empowering frame.
The shame of addiction often comes from a rigid, unforgiving inner story. Mindset work gives us the freedom to edit that story in real time—and begin to live a new one.
Read the original articles:
- The Framing Effect in Psychology: Why It Matters by Kendra Cherry
- Mindsets Provide a Clearer Lens on Life by Melissa De Witte
- Shifting Mindsets: What Does It Take? by Gary Klein
If you or anyone you know might benefit from a free consultation with a Clinical Addiction Specialist, fill out the confidential form on my website www.addictiontherapynyc.com, and I will reach out to you within 12 hours.
