Counselling for Addiction. Introduction
Addictions can be divided into two groups. substance addictions to drugs or alcohol, and behavioural addictions to, for example, gaiming.
Addiction is characterized by a craving that leads to an uncontrollable and obsessive use of substances or an urge to participate in behaviors that bring pleasure.
Starting the recovery process from addiction is a difficult and transformative experience. This article is dedicated to those suffering from addiction and their families.
Dependency and Addiction
In the DSM-V criteria for a substance use disorder, neither addiction nor dependence are listed. However, researchers identify the following distinctions between dependency and addiction: An inability to control one’s cravings and subsequent compulsive, uncontrollable drug or substance use despite knowledge of the negative effects is known as addiction.
Adapting to a drug creates a physical dependence. If a person develops physical dependence on a drug, they will experience withdrawal symptoms upon abruptly stopping it.
Another aspect of dependence is tolerance, which occurs when the body requires more of the drug to get the same effect.
Drug and alcohol addiction frequently involves tolerance and withdrawal since the majority of those with substance addictions experience dependency.
Behavioral addiction, such as gambling problem, does not exhibit a significant physical dependence characterized by tolerance and withdrawal. In this instance, the physical reliance has little bearing on the addiction’s continued maintenance.
Addiction Without Dependency
However, physical dependency is not always a sign of addiction. Longer prescription drug administration times may contribute to its development. When taking painkillers, for instance, the need for higher dosages typically indicates tolerance. As a result, drug dependence can develop in people without turning them into obsessive drug users.
Symptoms Indicating Addiction
Addiction symptoms differ depending on the substance or activity and from person to person. Indicators can consist of:
- Incapacity to stop: Even though they try, it can be extremely hard or impossible for people to give up on using drugs or engaging in dangerous addictive behaviours. Probably, they have already tried to stop several times without success. They often try to lie about their addiction.
- Increased Tolerance: When people use more of a substance over time, the more they need to reach the same effect and pleasure.
- Obsession with the substance or activity: People who are addicted become obsessed with the thing they are addicted to. When individuals find themselves needing, acquiring, and thinking about the issue of the addiction more and more, they could feel as though the addiction has taken over their lives.
- Lack of control: In many cases, people who are addicted feel helpless and like they lost all control over their substance use or behaviour. Their addiction and how this has affected their lives may often make them feel guilty and overwhelmed.
- Personal concerns and health issues: Addiction affects a person’s physical and emotional well-being. Their relationships, career, and self-care are also often affected. They could struggle to complete tasks at home, at school, or at work because of their substance abuse or the activity. They recognize the harm their addictions are causing to them but are unable to give them up.
- Withdrawal: If an addict stops using, they might get withdrawal symptoms. These can be physical and emotional. A few physical signs are trembling, perspiration, or nausea. They might also start to feel agitated or nervous.
Relapse and Cravings
The harmful processes associated with addiction that occur in the body are complex because they typically stem from the combination of two factor groups. One group encompasses environmental factors such as stress and social environment. The second group relates to a genetic predisposition, such as initially abnormal functioning of the brain pathways even before the very first drug/alcohol intake.
Relapses and alcohol cravings can result from these interacting effects even after a person has stopped abusing alcohol. Relapse prevention that is well thought out is therefore essential to the recovery from alcohol addiction. As the process of alcohol detoxication is coming to an end, or as soon as possible, the preparation of the rehabilitation steps should begin. CHMC India provides addiction rehab India, personalized therapy for dependence India, and professional addiction counseling India to support recovery. You can also access expert psychologist therapy for addiction India to prevent relapse and regain long-term control over your life.
Prognosis / Outlook
Many people control their addiction and lead full, healthy lives after receiving treatment. However, it’s difficult to recover from behavioral addictions and drug use disorders. It is also important for recovery to have supportive family, friends and medical professional.
Addiction can result in major health problems if not treated. It can sour interpersonal bonds, result in money troubles, and give rise to legal issues. Family members suffer from untreated addiction as well, and the impacts can extend beyond generations
How to Support an Addicted Person
It is very stressful and difficult to deal with someone who is addicted. This advice can help benefit you and your loved one:
- Speak up as soon as possible: Treatment for addiction should begin as soon as possible for those who need it. You can let them know you are worried and assist in getting them treated. Try giving recommendations such as contacting a hotline, speaking with a medical practitioner or mental health specialist, enrolling in a treatment program, or attending a 12-step group. Be supportive and helpful without passing judgment.
- Develop empathy: Give your loved one your entire attention even if you disagree with them. Your loved one will regard you as someone they can trust more if they feel like they’ve been heard.
- Have patience: You can’t expect your loved one’s addiction to be resolved with a single speech or action. There is no short cut to recovering from behavioral addictions and substance abuse disorders; these are complicated, long-term illnesses.
- Observe self-care: Friends and family members of addicts frequently deal with stress, despair, bereavement, and loneliness. It’s critical to look after your mental health and get assistance if you’re having these problems. Think about becoming a member of a local organization or support group.
Counselling for Addiction. Summary
Addiction is a serious condition wich requiers a professional help. Addiction counsellors use a variety of techniques to provide therapy for drug and alcohol dependence. Whether we are addressing addiction or dependency (or both), the approaches differ. Follow CHMC Dubai on Instagram for therapy tips and updates
Dependency and addiction frequently co-occur in people with substance use disorders. Even if they stop being physically dependent, a person may still be hooked. Comprehensive relapse prevention is therefore essential.
Addiction is a dangerous condition. Speak with your provider as soon as possible if you suspect that you or someone you care about may be addicted. Participating in support groups such as AA or NA significantly improves the therapeutic outlook. For professional guidance, consult our psychiatrist in India to get expert help and treatment options.