A Guide To Overcoming Addictions
It is estimated that at least 20 million people in the United States over the age of 12 are afflicted with addictions every year. There are many types of addiction, with drug addiction, alcoholism, and pathologic gambling being some of the most common. Overcoming addictions can change a person’s life, but the process can be very tough and overwhelming.
After decades of study, scientists have discovered that addiction is not simply a condition triggered by dysfunctional family, peer pressure, or any other environmental factor that most people associate it to. Rather, it is a brain disease that develops gradually as a result of the initially “voluntary” behavior of using a certain substance (such as drugs or alcohol). Because of this reality, many addicts find overcoming addictions a real struggle. The craving and seeking behavior seem impossible to control and many addicts feel hopeless about being able to live normally again.
Nevertheless, the realization that addiction is a brain disease should not make an addict feel like a powerless victim. Because addiction starts with the voluntary use of a certain substance, an addict must understand the importance of acknowledging how the addiction developed as well as the value of participating in and taking responsibility for his or her recovery. Having said that, it is clear that having this brain condition does not absolve any addict of taking responsibility for his or her actions. However, it does explain why most addicts cannot stop using drugs just like that and why overcoming addictions is such a tedious task. The good news is, there are several ways to safely and effectively conquer addiction. Below are some tips on how to overcome addictions.
1. Commit yourself throughout the process
An addict that does not commit himself to change will find that any treatment he gets will not be successful. Before anything else, a person must understand that recovering from any type of addiction is a lifelong process – one that requires admission of the problem. This is something that most individuals cannot or will not do, simply because it means that they will have to start finding a solution (which is not so easy to do). Although many addicts find the process difficult, it can really help if they consider all of the benefits they will receive and try to picture how better their life will be without it.
2. Get support from family and friends
Overcoming addictions is nearly impossible without getting some type of support from family, friends, or anyone who would be willing to listen as you share your feelings. Fighting addiction generally requires having an outlet for one’s emotions. In order to increase your chances of recovering, you must be able to find people who can provide emotional support and keep you accountable for your behavior and actions.
3. Join a support group
To build up your support system further, consider joining a local support group. Although your family and friends can aid in your recovery, these people usually do not really understand what you’re going through. It is much more insightful if you open up with people who are dealing with the same experience. Obtaining support from people who are in the same shoes as yours will give you a better perspective on what is happening in your life. What is more, it shows you that if others can do it, so can you.
4. Seek professional help
For serious addictions, seeking professional help may be the only way to recover. Sure, there are many medications available to treat certain addictions; however, one will need the expertise of a doctor to make treatment successful.
Overcoming addictions is never an impossible goal. An addict may stumble several times along the process, but with determination, proper care, and treatment, recovering from any type of addiction is achievable.
