THE WOUNDED HEALER PARADOX: PERCEIVED TRIGGERS OF DRUG RELAPSE AND RECOVERY AMONG PEER SUPPORTERS

The purpose of the present study was to examine the triggers for relapses among peer supporters, referred to as wounded healers, in the field of recovery from drug addiction.Despite extensive research on relapses, little attention has been given to individuals in recovery who support others while facing their setbacks.Participants were individuals with a history of drug addiction and criminality who experienced relapses and successfully returned to the recovery path.Using qualitative research design, semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted to gain a deeper understanding of the participants' subjective experiences of their recovery journeys, including withdrawal and re-recovery.Key findings reveal that disconnection from NA's 12-step program and recovering peers often triggered relapses, along with early romantic relationships and insufficient commitment to recovery.Furthermore, while empowered by their role as peer supporters, it also exposed unresolved personal issues, leading to what was described as the "savior-rescuer" paradox of the wounded healer.Nevertheless, lessons learned from past relapses enhanced their resilience and deepened recovery commitment.Rooted in the convict therapy perspective and related approaches, such as positive criminology and crime desistance, the study highlights the importance of social and recovery capital in peer support practices, it also offers valuable insights into strategies for relapse prevention.