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Addiction

Addiction is any repeated behavior, substance-related or not, in which a person feels compelled to persist, regardless of its negative impact on his life and the lives of others.

Cards and Chips

Addiction involves:

  • Compulsive engagement with the behavior, and preoccupation with it;

  • Impaired control over the behavior;

  • Persistence or relapse, despite evidence of harm;

Dissatisfaction, irritability or intense craving when the object – be it a drug, activity, or other goals – is not immediately available.

The hallmarks of any addiction are: compulsion, impaired control, persistence, irritability, relapse and craving.

How does the addict know she has impaired control?

Because they don’t stop the behavior in spite of all its effects. All addictions, substance-related or not, share states of mind such as craving, shame, and behaviors, such as deception, manipulation, and relapse.

Some of the symptoms of addiction are:

  • Feelings of anxiety, irritability or depression

  • Trouble thinking clearly

  • Blackouts

  • Problems with relationships

  • Spending money on substances rather than of food, rent or other essentials

  • Loss of hope

  • Feelings of emptiness

 

How Therapy Can Help

Recovery involves ongoing treatment with a therapist, learning healthier coping strategies, and making better decisions dealing with life’s challenges. In order to stay clean/sober, dealing with the underlying problems that led to your substance use is essential.

Contact me to schedule your complimentary 15-minute phone session today.

465 Morden Rd, Ste. 206, Oakville ON L6K 3W6

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