Being dependent on some substance is very much intoxicating than consuming a drug. Addiction to anything is harmful yet impossible to overcome if consumed for a longer period.
Addiction to cigarettes, alcohol, narcotics, gambling, or video games can harm your life and the lives of those around you. However, it is possible to beat addiction and lessen the harm it causes to you and other people.
It would be an understatement to say that addiction destroys lives and breaks relationships. You deserve to be prosperous, worry- and suffering-free, and to live in peace. The behavioural health specialists at Sunshine have some advice that can help you overcome your addiction.
Everybody is different, and for your recovery from addiction to be as successful as possible, your approach must be unique and catered to your circumstances. If you want to learn how to overcome substance addiction problems and co-occurring mental health concerns like depression or anxiety, you should be aware that while rehabilitation may need patience and perseverance, it is well worth the effort.
Why overcoming addiction seems to be difficult?
As addiction alters the brain's reward system and enhances the desire for substances or experiences, people continue to engage in dangerous activities despite the negative effects. Quitting becomes even harder because of these brain alterations, which also impact impulse control and judgment.
Addiction is treatable, even though addiction rehabilitation is difficult. You can overcome the physical and mental difficulties you encounter to recover with the help of helpful services and the appropriate treatment strategy.
You might be ignorant of the consequences of your addiction in the early stages of the process. You may have ambivalence as you become more conscious of the issues you are confronting and as you also grow more conscious of the need to kick your addiction.
However, after you've decided to change, you may start getting ready to act.
One of the best things you can do for your general health and well-being is to take back control of your life and begin the road to recovery. If you've decided to overcome addiction problems here are certain pointers which you must keep in mind for overcoming addiction problems.
1. Control your distractions or manage your distractions.
Keeping yourself active and occupied mentally is another strategy for overcoming addiction. You may be able to overcome your addiction by doing this.
2. Pay keen attention to your addiction habits
When you let your conduct take control of you, pay close attention to the results. You can gain a better understanding of your cravings and improve your ability to control them on an ongoing basis by being willing to turn toward your experience rather than merely concentrating on getting rid of unpleasant ones. Watch the video below to hear from psychiatrist Judson Brewer on how curiosity and addiction are related.
3. Decide ‘To Quit’
You get to decide what kind of future you want for yourself as you start your rehabilitation. Commit to recovery because you can transform your life. You deserve to build a good future, so put your attention there.
"I'm giving up using it so I can concentrate on my professional objectives."
"I'm going to give up my addiction so I can get along with my family better."
To spend my money on things that bring me joy, I'm going to give up my addiction.
4. Try to forget the memories of your addiction.
Try to remember your first experience with addiction while closing your eyes. For instance, on your first day of cigarette smoking. You visited a store and purchased a cigarette. Since it was your first encounter, you do remember it. Now picture having the same experience without purchasing a cigarette. Purchase another item from the store. Do your best to avoid the trigger.
You remember the addiction vividly. Attempt to remember them. In that scenario, keep your distance from the trigger rather than approaching it. While recreating your memories, it is altering.
5. Build a drug-free life.
You may maintain your addiction-free status by engaging in activities that you enjoy and are important to you. It's crucial to have objectives and things to look forward to.
Keep in touch with uplifting addicts who are getting better. Volunteering or taking up a challenging activity may also be helpful.
You can feel better by getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and eating well.
6. Belief in yourself throughout the process.
This is undoubtedly easier said than done. It takes a lot of work to become more confident in yourself, but don't let that scare you. Start by getting in touch with supportive individuals, reading affirmations, and seeking out activities that are exciting for you or that you can enjoy healthily.
Finally, keep your commitment! Stick to whatever you decide to do. Even if things might seem difficult at first, the persistent effort can help your aspirations and goals come true. Keep in mind that consistency is the only other option for getting there besides starting.
Share these suggestions with your network of supporters and get started right away rather than keeping them to yourself.
7. Create a space that will help you in overcoming your addiction.
Dispose of temptations - the things or substances that feed your addiction like cigarettes, alcohol, and narcotics. Keeping triggers nearby can only make your situation more challenging.
Avoid those who speak poorly about you and your addiction and surround yourself with those who will encourage you on your journey. Stress is a major contributor to poor health, so avoid allowing toxic people into your life. As an alternative, having everyone focused on the same objective will make your route simpler and lighter.
8. Speak to your loved ones
Ask your family and friends for their support and encouragement in a conversation. Inform them of your resignation. Ask them not to use your addiction's object in front of you if they do. If you buy drugs, you should think about telling your dealer that you're giving up; request that they stop calling and selling you drugs. Additionally, you might want to think about discussing the best way for you to stop smoking with your healthcare professional.
9. Get yourself treated with the help of the following treatment options.
People can enhance their coping mechanisms, create new behavioral patterns, and alter the underlying ideas that frequently underlie addiction with the aid of behavioral therapies and other forms of psychotherapy.
a. Cognitive Behavioral therapy
The goal of CBT is to recognize and alter the thoughts and actions that contribute to addictions. It has been proven to be quite successful in assisting individuals in overcoming all types of addictions.
b. Mindfulness
Many people may find it simpler to relate to mindfulness-based techniques like mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT). Like CBT, mindfulness is beneficial for patients with underlying mental health issues like depression or anxiety.
c. Medications
Treatment retention, coping skills, and the treatment of withdrawal symptoms can all be accomplished with the aid of medications. The kind of addiction being treated determines the kind of medication a doctor recommends. For instance, various drugs can be used to treat alcohol, nicotine, and opiate addiction.
Behavioral therapy, medication, lifestyle modifications, and peer support groups may all be a part of your treatment, but it's crucial to choose the strategy that best suits your requirements.
Long-term recovery is a continuous process of facing and coping with life without turning to addictive behaviors. It is not a destination. It requires ongoing dedication, which might weaken at any time—especially under pressure.
When you decide to seek help, schedule an appointment with Dr. Bakshi.
Click 'BOOK NOW' to book your appointment.
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