Addiction is a disease that claims the lives of many people each year. However it can be managed and overcome, but to do so, it is necessary to be aware of the predatory nature of the disease. So, what is addiction and how can you overcome it?
What Is Addiction?
Addiction is a mind-altering condition that changes the way a person perceives and relates to the world. It is a compulsive, ongoing process, with the individual spending the majority of his or her time and energy on it. It can be a problem that is either psychological, physical, or a combination of both. It is not a character flaw that can be overcome by willpower. Addiction affects the brain, and individuals with this condition will often experience a loss of control. Someone with addiction is usually unable to stop using the substance or behavioral issues relating to addiction, even though they know they should.
Set a Date
If you know you’re ready to make a change, the first thing you should do s set a quit date. Sure, it’s easy to say you will quit, but setting a start date is the only way to make it a reality. It helps you take control of your life and the addiction. It tells you that you are the one in charge. So, just set a date. Focus on the first step and the rest will follow.
Connect with Others
As part of your Recovery Process, it’s a good idea to meet with like-minded people who have walked in your shoes. Being around people who can help you, understand and relate to you will make the process easier. Another thing you can do is to connect with a support group, as research has shown that people do best in rehab centers that are relevant to the culture of the individual. It’s so important to find a support system that you feel comfortable with.
Find Healthy Distractions
To overcome an addiction, individuals must find healthy distractions that can help them cope with the withdrawal symptoms. For example, something like watching a movie or reading a book can give you something to focus on away from the addiction. Give yourself a break and try to discover passions that you may have lost along the way or reconnect with loved ones.
Change your Surroundings
Lastly, it’s a good idea to try a change of surroundings to give yourself, or your loved ones, the best chance of success. Try to remove any reminders of the addiction from the home, car, or workplace. It’s also important to create distance from people who would encourage addiction. For example, if you are trying to quit drinking, remove any wine glasses or bottle openers from the vicinity. For some people, the best way to do this is to opt for residential recovery services.
It’s not easy to quit an addiction once you develop it. Getting hooked on a drug, alcohol, gambling, or anything else can have a significant impact on your life, but the good news is there are ways to overcome these struggles. We know it can seem overwhelming to know where to start, but these four action steps can help you take the first step to get your life back.
