When most of us hear the word "addiction," we think about drugs and alcohol. These issues will be prominent in this blog, but, I want you to be aware that addiction comes in many forms and a large number of the emotional issues are not dissimilar from substance abuse concerns. There are children of alcoholics with related addictions, addictive eating disorder habits, nicotine abuse, sexual promiscuity fixations, felt gambling powerlessness and many other dangerous compulsive behaviors.
So, what is addiction? Whatever the behavioral dependency, it involves dysfunctional activities, a failure to discontinue the conduct despite a verbalized desire to do so, a denial that dependence is a problem, continuing the misconduct despite awareness resulting in physical, financial, legal, occupational, social and relationship problems.
People with addictions should be providing a complete history to a therapist which includes the amount and patterns of use and a discussion of negative life consequences. A physical exam is often recommended. An addict's motivation to change should be assessed.
If you are the client, it will be helpful for you to make a list of the ways that your addiction has negatively impacted your life and another list of the ways that addiction management can positively influence your personal, relationship, occupational, medical, legal and social issues.
It is important to recognize that the first step in addiction management is recognition that, on your own, you are powerless to make meaningful changes. A helpful group like alcoholics/narcotics anonymous can support your desires to develop an action plan for change. Attending group meetings can have a powerful impact on this process. Many people have negative feelings about participating in this kind of group. This may be a likely indication that it will be of benefit to you. Go. You can thank me later.
It is also helpful to find new sources of recreational and social friendships that do not involve the obstacles with which you struggle. Some people also find that a prize based management system is useful.
Although we know that relapse is part of addiction recovery, implementing relapse prevention strategies can help people to manage possible future situations with high risk of slipping back.
It is likely that someone can positively address addiction treatment if there is an acceptance of the truth about the problems that addiction has caused along with the unmanageability that addiction has brought to one's life. It can also be very helpful if people learn the facts about addiction, accept the diagnosis and cooperate with counseling management for withdrawal while entering a 12 step program of recovery.