Understanding The Counseling Process

3 Things You Need to Know About Overcoming Addiction

13 October 2016

Timmothy Washington

There are many people, good people, who find themselves struggling with addictions they never wanted but are now slaves to. What might have started out as an experiment in their youth has now become a demon that haunts them. Luckily, there is hope for relief from substance abuse and from addiction. However, you have to be prepared to put forth the effort to make healing happen. Here are some things you need to know about fighting an addiction.

1. It Is Not a Lack of Willpower That Makes You Fail

Many times people look at an addict an think they are weak because they succumb to the cravings. Perhaps in the beginning the individual had more control, but once an addiction becomes an actual addiction, it changes the way the person thinks and the way they process information and stimulation. An addiction is something that in some instances controls their minds. This is why it is so vital that in order to beat the addiction, you understand the hold that the addiction has on you. When you recognize that you cannot fight the addiction alone and that failing doesn't mean you are weak, it means you need more help, then you will finally start to find relief.

2. Recovery Is Not All or Nothing

This is surprising to many, but people who deal with addictions are in some cases perfectionists. The drive to be perfect and the inability to live up to their own or to others' expectations can drive them to a substance for relief. Having a perfectionist attitude can become a problem during recovery. If you think that you have to be perfect in your avoidance and sobriety, you will become discouraged. There will be times when you will slip up, and there will be times when you fail. Rather than let those stumbling blocks prevent you from reaching your goal, you should focus on the goal and be understanding of yourself. Keep pushing through, even if you have moments of weakness.

3. Ask for Help

Lastly, you need to ask for help. You must involve others in your quest for sobriety. You should have trusted family and friends who are there to support you. You need professional counselors and doctors who can help you to rewire your brain so that the addiction doesn't have a hold on you. This is why seeking professional treatment is so vital.

By understanding these things, you can find relief from your addiction. Consult a substance-abuse treatment professional such as Children's Home of NKY for further help.

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