When we hear the word addiction, the majority of us automatically think of things like heroin, alcohol or other like substances. Many of us don’t consider online addictions, gambling, shopping, etc. However, the fact is an addiction is anything we grow to depend on and are unable to easily stop relying on these habits even though they may be causing emotional or physical harm to ourselves and/or those we love. Dependency to addictions is needing a substance enough that we aren’t able to function normally without them Addiction, simply put, can be anything that you have the urge to indulge in and have a difficult time controlling or stopping.
According to statistics found on www.addictioncenter.com, in terms of chemical dependency, as of 2020 alcohol remains the number one cause of addiction, with nicotine trailing close behind. Nicotine, however, claims more lives than any other addictive substance.
Who has a tendency to develop addictions? Studies show those with impulse control disorders, as well as other mental health issues, are more susceptible to developing addictions. Genetic and environmental factors are also both responsible for influencing circumstances that lead to addictions. Economic status can play a roll, as well. Having a history of physical or sexual abuse, having been exposed to drugs or alcohol early in life and stress are all risk factors to becoming an addict. Addictions are most generally a way of self-medicating due to some underlying issue(s). I would argue that the majority of us suffer from some sort of addiction. Some are just more noticeable, less socially acceptable, and more harmful.
I have a handful of drug and/or alcohol addicts within my circle (friends and family) and, as I’ve grown and matured, I’ve shifted my mindset from anger (“Why can’t they just get it together?”) to trying to be more understanding and educating myself on the disease of addiction. As I have read and studied, I came to the realization that I, myself, suffer from various forms of addiction. Keeping my life and mind busy and full provides a false sense of comfort when, in reality, it is nothing more than a coping mechanism that causes me not to feel, which means I don’t have to deal with what’s negatively affecting my heart, mind, body and soul. (Until bedtime when I’m forced to be silent and it all comes pouring out at once.) As someone that has a history of trauma and struggles with anxiety, depression and PTSD, I frequently find myself using various means of distraction or numbing. Our house if full, always busy, always on the go. I often immerse myself in reading, television, and social media as means of quietening the noise within. Where others might use drugs or alcohol to bring about some silence and calm, I turn to other external factors. These things have damaging effects that I’ve not allowed myself to think about until now. When I am ignoring, I’m not healing. When I am submerged in a book, the TV or my phone, my loved ones aren’t getting the level of my undivided attention they need and deserve.
I am learning to find the peace and quiet my soul needs through utilizing other tools such as meditation, prayer, mindfulness, therapy, relying on close, like-minded friends, journaling, etc.
If you, or a loved one, is struggling with substance abuse and in need of help or resources one option is SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration). SAMHSA’s National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders. 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
“We don’t choose to be addicted; what we choose to do is deny our pain.”
– Unknown with real insights for the person in drug addiction recovery.
“A person with an addiction uses a substance, or engages in a behavior, for which the rewarding effects provide a compelling incentive to repeat the activity, despite detrimental consequences.”
– Quote from Psychology Today
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