Understanding Addiction: The Role of Therapy in Recovery

Have you noticed feelings of withdrawal, loss of control, or a constant urge to escape? You are not alone. Understanding addiction and seeking therapy for addiction is the first step towards overcoming addiction.

What is Addiction?

Addiction is a condition where an individual loses control over doing, taking, or using something to the point it causes harmful consequences. It is often associated with substance misuse or gambling addiction, but there are many other types of addiction.

Some examples of addictions are:

• Work Addiction: Neglecting other aspects of life, such as holidays or family, due to overworking to the point of physical exhaustion.

• Internet Addiction: Excessive use of the internet, leading to neglect of other important aspects of life.

• Sex Addiction: Intense focus on sexual fantasies and urges that can strain relationships.

• Shopping Addiction: Compulsive shopping for unnecessary items, often causing feelings of guilt, shame, and despair.

• Solvent Addiction: Dependence on volatile substances that create feelings of intoxication.

• Causes of Addiction

  
  

The causes of addiction are often linked to mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder or depression. Stress, emotional challenges, and professional pressure can also trigger addiction. Additionally, addiction is driven by a dopamine surge, where the brain releases dopamine, creating feelings of pleasure and reward. This cycle can lead to severe addiction over time.

Signs of Addiction

Recognising addiction symptoms is crucial for seeking help. Common signs include:

• Inability to stop: Individuals may hide or lie about their addiction and struggle to reduce it despite efforts.

• Intense focus on substance or activity: A pathological preoccupation with craving, obtaining, or thinking about the addiction.

• Lack of control: Feeling helpless in controlling the addiction, often accompanied by guilt, depression, or being overwhelmed by its impact.

• Withdrawal symptoms: Experiencing emotional and physical withdrawal symptoms such as shaking, sweating, vomiting, anxiety, or irritation.

  
  

Role of Therapy in Overcoming Addiction

Addiction treatment through Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) focuses on understanding and managing the emotions and thoughts that maintains addiction. This gentle and non-judgemental process allows individuals to grow and get better at their own pace. Therapy is not just about stopping the behaviour but also about understanding why it started and learning healthier ways to cope with addiction.

Bottom Line

At City Psychological Services, we provide addiction recovery support to help you understand the root causes of addiction and guide you on your journey to recovery. Reach out today addiction recovery is possible, and you are not alone.