Addiction is complex. There are many reasons a person goes down the road toward addiction and even more reasons for them to stay there. It’s a compulsion. A drive from deep within to continue doing something because of a mixture of a physical need for the substance and a mental desire to keep something at bay.

The reasons people end up with an addiction are as varied as they are complicated. The one constant for all addicts are the inevitable harmful consequences. These consequences often extend beyond the addict themself. Family, friends, coworkers, or anybody that comes in contact with the addict runs the risk of falling victim to these consequences.

The good news is that although addiction is a long road, it isn’t a dead end. Treatments are available. Like addictions themselves, treatments are varied and complex. There are often many different facets working together with the hope of restoring the addict’s ability to function without the substance.

Addiction therapy is an essential facet of this process. But what is addiction therapy? And how does it help?

Recognizing the Problem

Although addiction is often manifested physically, there are underlying psychological aspects that fuel the behavior. These psychological aspects can have roots that go far back into the addict’s life. Sometimes, the addict might not even realize how far back these roots actually go. Small seeds are planted throughout our lives. These seeds can grow to become many different things. And by the time they are fully grown, we can’t see exactly when or where they came from. 

These are the types of things addressed in addiction therapy. The physical addiction can be treated and endured, but the mental aspects are what lead to a relapse. Avoiding a relapse is even more work than getting off the substance in the first place. The initial withdrawal may be unpleasant but it’s ultimately short. Recovery lasts for the rest of the addict’s life.

You don’t know what to fix if you don’t know what’s broken. Taking the time to recognize what started the addict down the path of addiction is essential in figuring out what steps to take moving forward.

Are you ready to take the next step toward a happier and healthier life? Visit Dr. Phil Chanin today.

Addressing the Problem

Addiction is difficult to navigate. Relapse and recovery are going to be daily battles the addict will have to face on their own. There are many factors that could influence the addict in either direction. However, there are tools and systems that an addict can use to work with their predilections. 

Addiction therapy teaches the addict to recognize situations, moods, and thoughts that may lead them back into feeding their addiction. It is through recognizing these triggers that the addict is able to develop strategies that will be effective in coping with them. Whether it’s stress, fatigue, or negatively influential social circles, there are cues and stimuli that spark these cravings.

Proper motivation can be the difference between recovery and relapse. Therapy guides the addict to find that which will inspire them to continuously work toward their recovery. This motivation can come from family members, positive friendships, or maybe even a desire to focus on their work. Having something to focus on and work toward gives the addict reason to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Afterwards

Treatment for addiction never truly has an end point. These problems persist throughout the life of the addict. However, the skills learned through therapy assist the addict in navigating situations and decisions as they move forward. Therapy can continue for as long as the addict wants, and they can always return after sessions have ended. The goal is for the addict to continue on to a productive and healthy lifestyle. This metric is going to look different for everybody. 

Judging success and accomplishments can only be done by the addict themselves. Do you feel happier? Are you able to resist the urge to relapse? Have you found a sustainable lifestyle that brings you joy? These are the types of questions addicts have to ask themselves. The answers will inform their decision to return to therapy or not. 

It is not considered a backslide to return to therapy. Continued sessions help the addict to maintain a clear focus on their goals. This clear focus will help them to make advantageous decisions when they find themselves facing the triggers that previously led them to use.

Are you or a loved one struggling with addiction? Contact Dr. Phil Chanin today and learn more about addiction therapy.