What is Adiction?
Being addicted to alcohol or drugs is like being in a dark pit where you do not know what is up and what is down. It is cold and lonely, and you can feel hopeless about finding any escape.
Being the family member of a loved one who is struggling with addiction is scary and can leave you sad and in a constant state of uncertainty. You are always asking yourself why is your loved one pushing aside the life ring you toss out and grabbing the anchor of drugs and alcohol over and over and over again. You see they are drowning and feel you cannot save them.
Addiction is insidious, but there are paths to recovery. The process is not complicated; however, it takes great effort and perseverance. It starts with finding the right support, the person, or people with whom you can connect, who can understand you and your unique situation.
Clinically speaking, Substance use addiction is a chronic condition in which a person repeatedly uses drugs, alcohol, or other substances despite harmful effects on their health, relationships, and daily life. It affects the brain’s reward, motivation, and self-control systems, making it difficult to stop using even when negative consequences are recognized.
People with substance use addiction may experience cravings, loss of control, increased tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms. Contributing factors may include genetics, stress, trauma, and mental health challenges. Although serious, substance use addiction is treatable through counseling, therapy, medication, support groups, and recovery programs.
Schedule an Appointment
If you or someone you love is struggling with ADHD please don’t hesitate to contact us. You can give us a call or fill out our client intake form by clicking on the buttons below.
What is Process Addiction?
Process addictions, also known as behavioral addictions, involve compulsive engagement in activities despite negative consequences. Unlike a substance use addiction, process addictions do not involve drugs or alcohol but are linked to behaviors that activate the brain’s reward system. Common examples include gambling, gaming, shopping, internet use, work, exercise, and social media. People with process addictions may experience cravings, loss of control, and difficulty stopping the behavior even when it affects relationships, health, or responsibilities. These addictions often develop as coping mechanisms for stress, trauma, or emotional difficulties and can be treated through therapy and support.
