How to overcome an Addiction

Addiction may seem like a reasonably distant outcome when someone in their youth tries a drink or a seemingly harmless drug such as weed. Frequent parties and social events over time results in such habits prolonging over a long-term period and turning into an addiction in adults. Persistent long term use of alcohol and/or drugs can re-wire the brain and it can take more than just willpower to overcome it. Studies show that consumption of alcohol and drugs can destabilise neurotransmitters in the brain that are responsible for the mood and emotion. It can also impact the region of the brain that is responsible for an individual’s decision making ability

Don’t get addicted in the first place

For the risk of stating the obvious, the first step in overcoming an addiction is not to get addicted in the first place. But that is easier said than done. So, how can we avoid ourselves, our friends and loved ones from getting addicted to alcohol or drugs? By educating ourselves and others on effects of addiction and how it can impact our lives. 

Understanding Addiction

Addiction is defined as the inability to abstain from consuming alcohol or drugs or engaging in a destructive behaviour despite the negative health consequences. There are several substances or behaviours that can cause an addiction. Some of them are listed below:

• Tobacco
• Alcohol
• Medication such as those containing Opioids.
• Drugs like Weed, Cocaine, LSD, Heroin, etc..
• Internet or Social Media
• Gambling
• Gaming
• Sex

What are the effects of consuming Drugs and Alcohol?

The effects of an addiction can vary based on the substance or the behaviour that an individual is addicted to.

• Both Alcohol and Drug use is linked to several mental health effects in a user such as euphoria, depression, anxiety, hallucinations, lowered inhibitions and impaired judgement that could lead to risky behaviours.
• Alcohol consumption can lead to dehydration which by itself can lead to other conditions such as Headaches, Nausea, Vomiting and Hangovers.
• Alcohol use can also affect cardiovascular health and lead to high blood pressure, irregular heart beats, stoke or heart attacks.
• Most drugs can cause increased heart rate and blood pressure in the body. Persistent, long-term drug use in individuals can result in heart diseases such as high blood pressure, irregular heart beat, heart attacks and stroke.
• Long-term alcohol use is linked to liver diseases as alcohol is first processed in the liver. Liver diseases such as the Cirrhosis of the Liver, Fibrosis, Fatty Liver are caused by persistent, long-term alcohol use.
• Alcohol use over a long-term can lead to a weakened immune system and also the development of Cancer in the Liver, Colon, Rectum and Breast. 
• Alcohol and Drug use in teenagers is associated with difficulties in learning, memory retention and recall and overall academic delinquency.

Overcoming Addiction

So, obviously addiction is not good. So, what can one do to avoid or overcome an addiction in their daily lives? Let’s look at some tips from our staff below:

Exercise

Taking up some sport or cardio activity that makes you exhausted and burns those extra calories in you can help release adrenaline. Whether it is an exercise as simple as walking, gymming or little adventurous feats such as skiing or trekking, exercises receive a special mention in being able to cope with addictions.

Start a hobby

Each of us have passions that can lower our stress and increase happiness overall. Whether it’s sculpting, painting or drawing, it is advisable to pursue some art form to keep yourself constructively occupied. Also, working for charity while pursuing your passion can prove highly rewarding in itself.

Journal

According to a study, those that journaled regularly saw reduced symptoms of Depression and Anxiety. Journalling can help us express our feelings rather than bottle it up which can be un-healthy. Journalling can also help improve our mental clarity and promote self-growth.

Relationships

Healthy relationships are the abode of security, joy and partnerships for recovering addicts. They are vital in recovery process as they bring out the best in you and constantly remind you that you are responsible for your own happiness. Healthy friendships create in you a sense of belonging and provide enough support that in turn makes you happier and promotes your want to lead a healthy life. 

Rehab

A rehab can be crucial to recovery from a drug or alcohol addiction as they provide the right tools and support while overcoming an addiction. A Licensed Rehab such as Phoenix go a step further and support you during and post your recovery.