Addiction is a complex and often misunderstood condition that can affect people from all walks of life. At its core, addiction is a way of filling a hole in our hearts that we may not even realised was there. It is a way of coping with pain, loneliness, and other emotions that can be difficult to bear.
The initial attraction of addiction is often the promise of pleasure and escape from our daily struggles. We may turn to drugs, alcohol, or other unhealthy behaviours as a way of numbing ourselves to the pain and challenges of life. In the early stages of addiction, we may feel a sense of excitement and euphoria as we chase that initial high.
However, as we continue down the path of addiction, we can become trapped in a feedback loop in our brains that keeps us seeking out that initial feeling of pleasure. Our brains become wired to seek out the substances or behaviours that provide us with relief from our pain, even if we know that they are harmful to us in the long run.
This is where the romance of addiction can come in. We may romanticise our substance use or unhealthy behaviours, thinking that they provide us with a sense of freedom or escape from our problems. We may convince ourselves that we are in control, that we can stop anytime we want. But the reality is that addiction is a powerful force that can take hold of us and control our lives.
As we continue to chase the pleasure of addiction and move away from pain, we may begin to neglect our physical and mental health. Alcohol and drugs can poison our bodies, damaging our organs and contributing to a wide range of health problems. Despite this, we may find ourselves unable to resist the pull of the moving towards pleasure and away from pain trap.
The good news is that addiction is a treatable condition, and there is hope for recovery. With the right support, people can break free from the cycle of addiction and learn healthy ways to cope with the challenges of life.
BREAKING FREE FROM ADDICTION TO DRUGS OR ALCOHOL
- Seek professional help: Addiction to drugs and alcohol is a serious and complex condition that requires specialized treatment. Working with a trained addiction therapist or joining a rehabilitation program can provide you with the support and guidance you need to overcome your addiction.
- Make a commitment to recovery: Becoming free from any addiction is a challenging process. It is a hurdle we need to climb over and it will require a lot of hard work and dedication. Make a commitment to yourself to do whatever it takes to overcome your addiction and build a healthy meaningful life.
- It is important to have a network of supportive people to turn to for help and encouragement. This could include friends and family. Let people know what you are doing, otherwise we are not fully committed as we know if we slip, no-one will know. Be proud of what you doing, it is a great achievement.
- Practice self-care:, it is important what you stop poisoning your body that you start to take care of your overall physical and mental health. Make sure to prioritise self-care activities, such as exercise, healthy eating, and getting enough rest, to support you on your journey to your new life. When we shake off the old we leave space that needs to be filled by the new life you have chosen.
- Set achievable goals: Setting small, achievable goals can help you stay motivated and build confidence in your ability to overcome your addiction. These could be the number of times you go the gym each week, the number of steps of walk. How many healthy meals you eat a week. How many portions of fruit and veg you eat, the number of glasses of water you drink. Not forgetting about any new hobbies you now have time to bring into your life.
- Learn from your mistakes: It is common to slip up during the recovery process. If this happens, try to learn from your mistakes and use them as an opportunity to grow and improve. Remember that recovery is a journey, and setbacks are a normal part of the process.
- Find new ways to cope with stress and triggers: Addictive behaviours often develop as a way of coping with stress or difficult emotions. In recovery, it is important to find healthy ways to manage stress and avoid triggers that could lead to a relapse. This could include practicing relaxation techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing, or seeking support from a therapist or support group.
- Seek out positive role models: Surrounding yourself with friends and family who enjoy themselves without using alcohol or drugs can be a great help in making your life seem normal without using anything to get you through the day.
- Volunteering in your community can help you feel connected and supported in your journey. It can also be a great way to give back and help others who are struggling with life.
- Be patient and persistent: you are setting out on a new life pathway, and it can take time to build a new life. Be patient with yourself and remember that it is okay to take things one day at a time. With time and persistence, you can overcome your addiction and build the healthy, fulfilling life you deserve.
Carol Andrew Hypnotherapy & Coaching 