Has your social drinking progressed to daily use? Do you find you can’t get through the day without recreational drugs or alcohol? Do you wake up in the morning ashamed of your behavior the night or day before? Are your interpersonal relationships suffering due to substance use?
Addiction is an uncontrollable need to use substances such as alcohol or narcotics, both legal and illegal. An addiction usually develops over a significant period of time in which casual use evolves into increased tolerance and a need to use the substance in order to function in daily life.
It is important to understand that not all addictions reflect the stereotypical image of a drug addict in an alley or an alcoholic who drinks all day every day. Many people struggling with addiction are high functioning individuals or professionals. The habit of having a few drinks to relax after a stressful day at the office can grow into a dependency on alcohol.
Early intervention
Addictions can range in severity. Research shows that early intervention and treatment offers the best chance of recovery, due to the fact that the condition does not progress to detrimental levels. If you are concerned about your drinking or drug use, getting help before it becomes a significant issue can prevent potential problems with your health, relationships, or career.
Chronic stress and vulnerability to addiction
Addiction is often a coping mechanism. Drugs and alcohol can be used to alter states of mind to help deal with difficult emotions, stress, or physical pain. Drugs and alcohol make us feel better by altering brain chemistry and concurrent changes in thoughts and emotions. This is one way to manage anxiety, sadness, or even anger, and it can temporarily reduce the intensity and duration of negative emotion.
It’s important to note that overcoming a physiological addiction is only one component of recovery. Recognizing emotional triggers, addressing trauma, as well as fear and shame from recent events to early childhood can be a cathartic and effective means to reduce cravings.
Psychotherapy provides the opportunity to focus on a broad range of issues that contribute to addiction as well as other behavioral and emotional challenges. A therapist can provide the connection, support, and guidance needed to move through a difficult time and assist you in developing healthier habits and having a better quality of life.
If you would like to learn more please call or email to schedule an initial appointment.
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