Substance and Behavioral Addictions
Addiction is a complex disorder involving compulsive engagement in a behavior despite negative consequences. Ultimately addiction is a symptom of underlying psychological, emotional, or environmental factors, but manifests in a substance or obsessive behavior.
Therapy aims to address these underlying issues while also helping individuals develop coping mechanisms and healthier behaviors to manage cravings and triggers. Therapy can include exploring the your history of substance use or addictive behaviors, identifying triggers and patterns associated with their addiction, and examining the consequences of their behavior on various aspects of their life, such as relationships, work, and health. We may also discuss your motivations for change, which can help explore any ambivalence about recovery and identify personal values and goals that can serve as sources of motivation. Additionally, when addressing addiction, it is essential to address underlying psychological or emotional issues that contribute to the addiction, such as trauma, depression, or anxiety, and work with the individual to develop coping strategies for managing cravings, stress, and other triggers.
Overall, therapy for addiction involves a collaborative process between the therapist and the individual, focusing on understanding the root causes of the addiction and developing strategies for change and recovery.
Symptoms of Addiction:
Impaired Control
Individuals with addiction struggle to control their substance use or behavior, often failing to limit or stop despite repeated attempts and negative repercussions of their behaviors.
Social or Interpersonal Issues
Addiction often leads to social and interpersonal difficulties as we may prioritize our addictive behavior over obligations and innate values. This can manifest as strained relationships with family and friends, problems at work or school, and social isolation.
Tolerance
Over time, individuals may develop tolerance, meaning that they need larger amounts of the substance or more intense engagement in the behavior to achieve the desired effect. This will continue to escalate without intervention.
Withdrawal
When not using the substance or engaging in the behavior, individuals may experience withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can be both physical and psychological and contribute to the cycle of addiction.
Continued Engagement Despite Consequences
One of the defining characteristics of addiction is the persistent use of the substance or engagement in the behavior, even in the face of negative consequences such as health problems, legal issues, or financial difficulties.
Cravings
Intense and persistent desires or cravings for the substance or behavior are common in individuals with addiction. These cravings can be triggered by various cues and contribute to the difficulty of quitting.
Different Types of Addictions
Addictions encompass a diverse range of compulsive behaviors that individuals may struggle with, often leading to detrimental consequences. Common types of addictions include substance addictions such as alcoholism, and drug abuse but there are also a multitude of behavioral addictions as well. They involve non-substance-related compulsions, including gambling addiction, internet and gaming addiction, food addiction (such as binge eating or compulsive overeating), and sex addiction. Additionally, there are lesser-known but equally impactful addictions like shopping addiction, exercise addiction, and even addiction to certain emotions or relationships. Each addiction presents its own challenges and requires tailored approaches to treatment and recovery.
How we treat addiction
From a clinical standpoint, addiction is often assessed and treated using a biopsychosocial approach, recognizing the interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors in hopes of healing the mind, body, and spirit. Some therapeutic approaches that our therapists at Epios Therapy may utilize include:
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Originally developed for the treatment of borderline personality disorder, DBT combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness strategies. It can be effective in addressing impulsive behavior and emotional regulation in individuals with addiction. DBT is one of the most effective tools in combating addiction as it works on multiple fronts by highlighting mindfulness, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and emotional regulation.
Trauma Informed Therapy
Many individuals with addiction have a history of trauma. Trauma-informed therapy recognizes the impact of trauma on mental health and addiction, integrating trauma-sensitive approaches to promote healing. Trauma can be a significant barrier for people's long-term recovery as it often compounds itself over time and not only is it essential to learn healthier coping mechanisms, but also to identify ways in which it continues to shape our behaviors and perspectives.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is a widely used therapeutic approach that focuses on identifying and modifying dysfunctional thought patterns and behaviors. In the context of addiction, CBT helps individuals recognize and change the thoughts and behaviors that contribute to addictive behaviors. While CBT is helpful for behavioral change, it falls short on uncovering the underlying challenges facing addiction which is why it is often used in tandem with other therapies.
Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET)
MET is a counseling approach designed to enhance an individual's motivation to change. It involves exploring and resolving ambivalence about quitting substance use, setting goals, and strengthening commitment to change. This can assist in not only cultivating motivation but also discipline to assist with long-term recovery.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
A form of psychotherapy that encourages individuals to accept their thoughts and feelings rather than trying to change or control them, while also promoting committed actions aligned with personal values to enhance psychological flexibility and well-being. ACT emphasizes mindfulness, values clarification, and behavioral strategies to help individuals create a rich and meaningful life in the presence of challenges.
Family Therapy
Addiction often affects not only the individual but also their family and social network. Family therapy involves the participation of family members in the treatment process, addressing communication patterns, enabling behaviors, and promoting a supportive environment for recovery. Therapy can also be provided for family members who have been impacted by others' addiction issues as well.
WHY DOES RELAPSE HAPPEN?
Barriers to Treating Addiction
Treating addiction is like trying to untangle a giant knot – it’s messy, frustrating, and sometimes feels like you’re going in circles. One of the big challenges is that addiction isn’t just about the substance itself; it’s often tangled up with deep-rooted emotions, past traumas, and ingrained habits. Breaking free from addiction means digging deep to uncover those underlying issues and finding healthier ways to cope. Plus, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution – what works for one person might not work for another.
Another reason treating addiction can be challenging is because it often comes with a hefty side of shame and guilt, which can make it tough to ask for help or stay on track with recovery. Unfortunately stigma is part of the world we live in today and coming to terms with the sheer idea that we might need help, is often a huge victory in itself. At Epios Therapy we focus on breaking the shame that can plague us by normalizing experiences and examine the true reason why some of us use substances and behaviors to escape ourself.
Don't Face Addiction Alone
It’s important to note that addiction is a chronic condition, and long-term management and support are often necessary for sustained recovery. Addressing co-occurring mental health issues, such as PTSD, depression, or anxiety, is crucial for comprehensive care. Addiction is complex but at Epios Therapy, we look at you as a person rather than just as your addiction. Overcoming addiction can be triumph of the human spirit, showcasing the power of determination and resilience to rewrite one’s story and embrace a future filled with boundless potential and newfound freedom. Reach out and give recovery a chance today with the help of therapy.