5 action steps for quitting an addiction

Continued exposure to the behavior leads to tolerance, where larger amounts of the substance are required for the same effects. Addiction is a complex illness that causes lasting changes in brain chemistry and functioning. These changes do not only make a person crave their addiction, they can lead to emotional, psychological, and physiological dependence, affecting every aspect of a person’s life.

The most frustrating aspect is that even when the addict has a good reason to stop, such as an ultimatum from a spouse or loved one or trauma from an accident, they still can’t stop. The desire and NEED to use drugs become stronger than anything else, even if the individual has all the willpower in the world. An addict’s brain has changed, and there are now neurological and psychological mechanisms at play that fuel the cycle of addiction. Formal addiction treatment involves structured and specialized programs that address substance use disorders and other addictions.

What Does Formal Addiction Treatment Look Like?

It is perpetuated by physiological, psychological and emotional dependency. This cycle of addiction continues unrestrained, until some type of intervention get out of addiction cycle occurs (self-intervention, legal, family, etc.). Written by John R. Williams, MA LMHC, Mental Health Therapist for The Center • A Place of HOPE.

This is where professional help can help make this process much easier. Through behavioral therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy for substance abuse, an individual can examine their drug and alcohol use and work on building positive behaviors to stop using. Interventions are successful when they are planned out and organized well by those who care the most about the person struggling with addiction.

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The action stage is characterized by concrete steps toward overcoming addiction. Real change starts here as the person begins to modify their behavior and seek professional help. There will be long periods of abstinence and a willingness to continue the process if there’s a relapse. The individual identifies their triggers and makes plans to avoid them.

• As discussed above, addiction is a complicated condition that involves brain changes and other factors influencing a person’s health, wellbeing, and overall quality of life.
• Supportive coping strategies, on the other hand, can be protective and beneficial for health.
• This comes through the proper assistance and support from those who matter most.
• Addiction refers to behavior patterns where people continue seeking and using habit-forming substances.
• Addiction isn’t a final state, but an obstacle you need to cross for a healthier life.
• Many people who struggle with addiction turn to their substance of choice as a coping mechanism to deal with stress.

Speak with your healthcare provider to determine which treatment plan is best for your individual situation and stage of addiction. No matter your stage, it’s never too late or too early to enter treatment. Individuals at the earlier stages of addiction likely will not need the same intensity of treatment that those in later stages will need.

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It’s not just about substance use but also emotional and physical changes. In the fourth stage, the individual does not only need the substance or the activity for pleasure; they need it for normal functioning. Dependence brings on extremely negative feelings without the substance or activity of choice. The cravings are more intense at this stage, and the individual will go to great lengths to sate those cravings. They may experience withdrawal symptoms at this stage, depending on the drug.

A person in the precontemplation stage does not consider their addiction a problem and will not see the need for help. They enjoy the pleasure of their addiction and are yet to have a significant negative experience. This stage is also marked by defensiveness and justification of addictive behavior.

How To Break The Cycle Of Addiction In Families

An overbearing and all-consuming need rises within the person to get ahold of the substance to regain happiness and a sense of control over themselves. Substances can be introduced to a person in various ways, such as through a family history of substance abuse, social situations, peer pressure, and others. A person could begin using substances or engaging in activities to cope with stress or escape from reality or even find a measure of happiness in their life. The process of cravings, use, and withdrawal symptoms is known as the addiction cycle, but through dedicated efforts, individuals can transcend it and discover a life of renewed possibilities. The cycle of addiction is the repetitive pattern people with addiction often experience.