Addiction Treatment

What Exactly is Addiction?

Addiction comes in many forms. People can be addicted to alcohol, food, pornography and even their phones. Many people experience addiction. According to a study done by NIH, 10% of US adults have reported a drug addiction at some point in their life (NIH, 2015). What exactly is addiction though?

Addiction is a complex and chronic condition that involves a compulsive craving, seeking, and use of a substance or engagement in a behavior, despite its negative consequences. Addiction can create physical dependency as well as psychological dependency

Physical dependence occurs when the body adapts to the presence of a substance or behavior. Tolerance develops, requiring higher amounts or increased intensity to achieve the same effect.

Mental dependence involves emotional and psychological reliance on the substance or behavior. Individuals with addiction experience intense cravings, a preoccupation with obtaining and using the substance or engaging in the behavior, and a loss of control over their actions.

Do I Have An Addiction?

There are many signs of addiction. You do not need to experience all of these symptoms to have an addiction. Some people experience more of these than others and the intensity differs from person to person. However, below are some of the most common signs of addiction.

1. Strong cravings: Feeling intense and persistent cravings or urges for the substance or behavior you're addicted to.

2. Lack of control: Struggling to control or stop using the substance or engaging in the addictive behavior, despite your efforts.

3. Neglected responsibilities: Prioritizing the addiction over important responsibilities like work, school, or relationships, leading to neglect or deterioration in those areas.

4. Continued use despite consequences: Persisting with the addiction despite experiencing negative consequences, such as health problems, relationship issues, financial difficulties, or legal troubles.

5. Withdrawal symptoms: Experiencing physical or psychological symptoms when trying to quit or cut back, which can include cravings, irritability, restlessness, anxiety, depression, or physical discomfort.

6. Increased tolerance: Needing more of the substance or engaging in the behavior more frequently to achieve the desired effect.

7. Social withdrawal: Withdrawing from social activities, hobbies, or relationships in favor of the addiction.

8. Secrecy and deception: Engaging in secretive or deceptive behaviors to hide your substance use or the extent of your addictive behavior.

9. Neglected self-care: Neglecting personal hygiene, appearance, or general self-care due to the focus on the addiction.

10. Loss of interest: Losing interest in activities or hobbies you once enjoyed, as the addiction takes up more of your time and energy.

Can Addiction Be Cured?

It's important to remember that success in addiction therapy is highly subjective. Each person's journey is different, and success is not measured solely by the absence of addiction but by the progress made, personal growth, and overall well-being achieved.

Many clients who seek help and support for their addiction see tremendous improvement in their lives. These improvements include:

1. Sobriety: Many individuals are able to overcome their addiction, abstain from substance use or addictive behaviors, and live without being controlled by their cravings or compulsions.

2. Improved Physical Health: Recovery from addiction often leads to improved physical health. Eliminating or reducing substance use can alleviate many health issues associated with addiction, allowing individuals to experience enhanced vitality, better sleep, improved organ function, and a decreased risk of related health problems.

3. Emotional Well-being: Addiction can take a toll on emotional well-being, leading to mood swings, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Successful recovery often involves addressing these emotional issues, and individuals can experience increased emotional stability, reduced symptoms of mental health conditions, and a greater sense of overall well-being.

4. Repaired Relationships: Addiction can strain relationships with loved ones, causing trust issues, conflicts, and communication breakdowns. Successful recovery often involves repairing and rebuilding these relationships. By demonstrating consistent sobriety, making amends, and developing healthier patterns of interaction, individuals can rebuild trust and strengthen their connections with family and friends.

5. Achievement of Goals: With addiction no longer controlling their lives, individuals can focus on pursuing their goals and dreams. Whether it's education, career advancement, or pursuing new hobbies and passions, successful recovery can empower individuals to strive for and achieve their aspirations.

Do I Need to Completely Stop or Can I Improve My Relationship to the Substance/Behavior?

There are many schools of thought when it comes to addiction treatments. Some people advocate for full sobriety or abstinence from the substance or addiction. For some people, this approach works well. Other folks don’t want to commit to full sobriety so they choose to improve their relationship to their substance/behavior. This is often called the harm reduction model.

Each person should consider the pros and cons of abstinence and harm reduction along with their therapist to determine which approach may be best for them.

What Treatments Work For Addiction?

Therapy plays a crucial role in the treatment of addiction, offering a safe and supportive environment to explore the underlying factors contributing to addiction and to develop strategies and skills for recovery. Here are some common evidence based therapy approaches used in addiction treatment. These are the main modalities we use at PRGRS Therapy.

1. CBT Therapy or Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT therapy helps individuals identify and change unhealthy thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors associated with addiction. It focuses on developing coping skills, managing triggers and cravings, and fostering healthier ways of thinking.

2. Motivational Interviewing (MI): MI is a client-centered therapy that helps individuals resolve ambivalence about changing addictive behaviors. It aims to strengthen motivation for change, build self-confidence, and promote commitment to recovery.

3. DBT Therapy or Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): DBT therapy helps individuals manage difficult emotions, develop effective interpersonal skills, and enhance distress tolerance to prevent relapse. DBT therapy is highly practical and actionable. Clients learn a plethora of skills and tools to help achieve and sustain an improved relationship with substances and/or behaviors.

4. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): ACT therapy is an evidence-based treatment approach that can be effective in addressing addiction. ACT therapy focuses on accepting difficult thoughts and emotions, committing to value-driven actions, and developing psychological flexibility.

Are You Ready To Begin Your Journey

At PRGRS Therapy we use evidence based therapies, and tailor treatment plans to each individual to achieve their desired result and to help them gain control over their addiction

If you are ready to gain control over your addiction contact us today to schedule a free 15 min phone consultation.