Whether an addiction is to alcohol, drugs, or food it can be described as an inability to control intake of substances to such an extent that it then creates problems in other areas of the user’s life.
Similarly the term addiction can be applied to addictive behaviors such as sex or gambling or when a person feels compelled to carry out certain patterns of behaviour such as hand washing or cleaning.
Current opinion deems it to be partly, physiological response in the body and part social . Addiction is often hard to beat alone because at the root of it there is usually an underlying emotional issue. This could be one of many things including:
- Loneliness
- Low self esteem
- Insecurity
- Grief
- Anxiety
- Unresolved issues from the past
- Social shyness
There is hope. Many have found a way out of their dilemma.
The solution rests in knowledge of the addictive process and a commitment to change. Psychotherapy and counseling can facilitate greater self awareness and honesty within oneself. The origins of the addiction can identified and explored. Together counsellor and client will work on ways to move forward, prevent relapses and so aid a return to a more balanced and satisfying way of life.
One session per week can provide the support needed to turn the corner.
