Jim has been struggling with an alcohol addiction for the past three years. In the first year, he was not that into it, it was just an occasional drink. However, over time he started drinking every weekend. It became very difficult for him to restrict himself to weekends. He started with a drink before work and then slowly over time it became a routine through the day. It has reduced his ability to concentrate on his work. It has been a point of contention with his wife and family. He has become sluggish and unwilling to indulge in any help around the house.
Addictions involve the use of substances like inhalants, opioids, alcohol. This may also involve gambling, gaming, or cigarettes. When these substances are continued, it affects brain functions. All of these habits can result in the likelihood of depression and anxiety setting in therefore it is important to catch these habits as they set in.
All addictions are capable of inducing thoughts that are depressive. Thoughts of failure like guilt and shame are rampant in the mind of someone who is addicted to a game or habit. There are many ways that this can helped.
Recurrent use of a substance will lead to some degree of impairment. This can happen based on
When the substance use has happened over a long time.
When the substance is craved for more than usual.
When the use of substance disrupts normal routine.
When there is an interference in the social and interpersonal life and the problems that it causes
When there is a withdrawal from the community, friends and family.
There are many causes for addiction like biological, psychological, and environmental factors that could be detrimental if not given care to.
Biological factors:
If there is a hormonal imbalance.
If there is a genetic disposition.
Psychological factors:
Personality is a key factor for addictions. For example, impulsivity and thrill seeking are factors for addictions.
Trauma and abuse are also factors that lead to addictions.
Environmental factors:
If there is a family member who is addicted then there is an early exposure to these habits.
If the individual is surrounded with people who are addicted to gambling or drinks
All these are factors that could influence the way an individual feels and thinks. Addictions are to be treated with care, recovery however, is a whole different ball game and it is a long road. There could be many instances of relapses. Frustration is something that is very prevalent on this road of recovery. Dealing with this frustration is crucial to the recovery of this individual.
Steps of recovery:
1. Detoxifying is the first step that is required in the process of recovery.
2. Medications that help reduce the use of these substances may be given to counter anxious and depressive thoughts.
3. Using therapeutic models to help the person identify destructive thought patterns.
4. Allowing the individual be part of group therapy sessions where they get to speak to other people who are on the same road to recovery.
It is important to have therapy for the immediate family members as well as to help bring awareness on how to help their family member. Some basic life skills can also be introduced to the person for healthy living and lifestyle.
When an individual is seen going down this path, it is important for the family to reach out to the individual and help them get the help that will help them become a responsible individual.
To read more on the treatment and the road to recovery, click on the article – Alcohol addiction – is there a treatment from this?
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