Addiction
A habit that is notoriously difficult to shift can become an addiction. In fact, addiction is the regular, compulsive use of something that changes your mood. However, although it makes you feel better, you know that you would rather not do it! Furthermore, addictions can form gradually and take hold before you realise it. Also, they can seriously upset your life and make you very unhappy. Addictions can concern behaviour or substance use.
What’s more, the problem with addictions is not just that they’re something you can’t stop doing. It’s that they usually hurt you in some way, often both mentally and physically. Also, they usually hurt other people as well. In addition, addictions can bother you financially, as they usually cost money. You might need help to overcome an addiction, as they are so hard to give up.
Common Addictions include:
- Drinking too much alcohol
- Gambling
- Over-eating to self-soothe
- Smoking cigarettes
- Taking drugs
- Viewing pornography has recently been added to the list of addictive behaviours
Common Causes of Addiction
- Coping with adverse childhood experiences
- Copying others with the addiction, such as family and friends
- Mental health disorders that impair self-regulation and control
- Over-use or over-exposure to something you enjoy (dopamine fix)
- Pain management
- Possible genetic vulnerability
- Self-soothing from stressful life events
- Social isolation and loneliness
- Trying to cope with trauma symptoms or PTSD
- Using the addiction to cope with depressive feelings
Common Symptoms of Addiction
- Changes in normal habits, such as eating, exercise and sleeping
- Decrease in social interaction
- Depending on the addiction, there may be changes in clothing or appearance
- Increasing need for the addiction over time
- Intense urges for the addiction
- Loss of interest in usual activities and people
- Low mood or irritation
- Neglect of family duities and other responsibilities
- Noticeable weight changes
- Withdrawal symptoms if you try to stop the addiction
To read more about Addictions, see downloadable PDF: Addictions and Cannabis.
Counselling for Addiction
If you have a bad habit you want to kick, counselling can help you take control. Then, you can then do more of the things you really
want. In fact, you could take the first step to stop the harmful habits now. For substance addictions, you will need the help of your GP to moniter your health as you begin the withdrawal process. At the same time, we can help you to manage the thoughts, feelings and urges. Indeed, you can learn to take charge of what you are doing, rather than let it take control of you. If you are finding it difficult to stop something that you would rather not do, talk to us and see if we will help you. Click on the image to book your first session today!
Contact Radiance Hobart Counselling & Self-Development
now for more information about what we have to offer