How Addiction Happens

For treatment to be successful, addicts must quit engaging in addictive behaviour. Cessation is a critical first step, and addicts usually need considerable support and encouragement at this point. In the case of drug or alcohol addiction, a medically supervised detoxification programme may be necessary.

However, it is important to recognise that ceasing addictive behaviour is only a first step. Addictive behaviours – from drug abuse to compulsive gambling to food addiction – are caused by severe underlying emotional problems. Successful addiction recovery programmes will offer counselling and other treatments that are specifically designed to help addicts work through their emotional problems and help them to interact more constructively with others and take responsibility for their lives.

This explains why addicts cannot simply quit. Addicts are not lazy or indulgent. Rather, they are subject to compulsive actions over which they have no control. Fortunately, this is not a hopeless situation. Through professional treatment, addiction can be overcome and addicts can lead successful and productive lives.

Addiction recovery programmes can be intensive and difficult, requiring enormous patience and dedication. Addicts will often feel frustrated with the pace of treatment or show initial resistance to counselling. Experienced counsellors will work with addicts patiently and professionally, enabling addicts to acquire the skills and emotional resources to live successfully without resorting to addictive behaviours.

In order to alleviate some of the difficulty of the process, and to help addicts attain physical and emotional balance, addiction recovery programmes may incorporate a number of complementary activities as well as a range of physical activities and a healthy eating programme.

Addiction recovery is an ongoing process. Addicts need to learn principles according to which to lead their lives that will both help them resist resuming damaging behaviour and will empower them to live healthily and successfully. Incorporating a 12 Step Recovery Programme into addiction recovery programmes has been shown to reduce the chances of relapse. 12 Step Programmes provide addicts with guiding principles for a balanced life, and emotional resources to cope with stress and emotional strain.

Addiction is a serious problem, but it can be overcome. With commitment and professional treatment, addicts can re-enter society with a sense of self-confidence and a healthy emotional outlook.

Addiction recovery programmes do not offer overnight cures. They do offer a nurturing environment, professional guidance and counselling, and ultimately the chance for addicts to recover their sense of self-worth and take control of their lives.

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