A slip is defined as:

• A. A relapse after treatment
• B. A desire to abstain
• C. A completely new addiction
• D. An episode of substance use following abstinence

Answer: (D)

When thinking about early recovery terminology, the important idea is distinguishing a temporary lapse from a full relapse. A slip is an isolated episode of using after a period of abstinence. It shows that use has occurred briefly, but it doesn’t mean recovery has failed or that the person has returned to prior levels of use. It’s a signal to apply coping strategies, seek support, and resume abstinence. This is different from relapse, which implies a more sustained return to previous patterns of use and loss of control. A slip isn’t simply a craving or desire to abstain, and it doesn’t indicate a brand-new addiction—it’s a single instance of use after abstinence.