Addictions take on many forms and manifestations. The most common and harmful types of addictions involve alcohol, cigarettes, gambling, and drugs. Some types of addiction aren’t as harmful, but can also be quite serious when things get out of hand. These include addiction to TV, social media, video games, and food.
The clinical definition of addiction is a physical and psychological inability to cease consumption of a substance, chemical, activity, or drug even if it is already causing serious physical and psychological harm. Simply put, addiction is when a person can no longer control his or her urges and is already at the point of destruction.
Getting out of addiction to something is tough, but that’s not to say it cannot be done. People who have undergone addictions of sorts have been through some of the toughest physical and mental battles imaginable. It’s never easy to admit a weakness. It’s hard to face prejudice from other people, especially when it’s coming from the ones you trust. It’s difficult to go through the drug or alcohol withdrawal management process and be on the verge of a relapse.
Now a person might think that he or she has no control over his addiction, but that’s not true. Something can be done about it but it will take great willpower and community support to overcome addiction.
1. Take time to reflect on what’s going on in your life
People become addicted to things for different reasons. But generally, all of them are looking for relief from pain and pressure — an escape from the realities of life. If you’re struggling with addiction, slow down and take time to evaluate what’s going on in your life right now.
Identify how you got started down this path and see what triggered you to engage in such activities. Then ask yourself the hard questions like, what do you seek and why aren’t you satisfied with your life? Getting the answers to this will help open doors for you to finally break through your struggles.
2. Explore creative avenues for expression
Try and look for ways to express yourself creatively and get a natural high. Typically, arts and creative endeavors prove to be quite therapeutic for those who feel stuck in a rut and have turned to some form of addiction. If you’re looking for an escape or release from life’s challenges, turning to the arts will give you that escape and gratification you’re looking for without causing you any unnecessary pain and harm.
3. Hold yourself accountable to someone you trust
Even if you’ve already committed to making your life better, recovering from addiction is never easy. Between withdrawals and tendencies for relapse, it is a tough battle that you need to face every single day. Some days are better than others and you will need the help of people you trust to keep you in check and motivated.
Look for people you trust and care for you enough to tell you what you need to hear when you need it and make yourself accountable to them. The road to recovery is easier to travel when you have people alongside you.
4. Be more physically active and regularly
exercise
Exercise and physical activities help promote a healthier lifestyle. Working out is also scientifically proven to improve one’s mood and self-esteem. In a way, you get a sort of high from working out, one that makes you feel really good about yourself.
5. Know your kryptonite
If you have struggled with any form of addiction or are still struggling, you already know what your weaknesses are. You must take note of the things that trigger you to make bad decisions in life. Write them down in a journal if you must and if you do, be as detailed about it as you can get. Doing this will help you have a better perspective of your circumstances and know which situations and things to avoid.
6. Stay away from
bad company
Bad company corrupts character. If you’re on the road to recovery, it is advised that you steer clear of people that could break your momentum and cause you to go back to the prison you broke out from. Surround yourself with people who will help you win in life.
7. Nurture your spirit
Lastly, as you begin your journey to healing your body and mind, do not neglect to nurture your soul as well. Constant reflection and evaluation coupled with gratitude and spiritual sustenance can help you go a long way. It can be one of your anchors on this new life you’re starting and keep you motivated and inspired to never go back to your old ways.
If you, or anyone you know, is going through this ugly battle, seek help and counsel. The very thing that will set you on the road to freedom and breakthrough is humility. Admit you’re not doing okay and that you need all the help you can get. That’s usually the first step to healing.
