Addiction, or dependence on a particular substance or activity, is a mental health concern. Addiction can often be difficult to treat, and individuals suffering from dependency often find the services of a mental health professional to be helpful in overcoming the addiction. Drug and alcohol abuse or misuse is classified as excessive or inappropriate use of the substance. Abuse is indicated by repeated negative consequences, such as:
- Failure to meet social, work, and academic obligations.
- Physical harm.
- Legal problems, such as arrest for driving while intoxicated.
- Relationship problems loved ones.
- Impulsivity.
- Diminished interest.
- Memory loss or blackouts.
Signs of chemical dependence include:
- Increasing tolerance, consuming more of the substance to reach the desired altered state.
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- Requiring the substance throughout the day, i.e. eye opener.
- Seeking the company of other users.
- Decreasing social interactions with non-users.
- Getting angry at expressions of concern from loved ones.
- Avoiding other activities
- Failing to meet obligations.
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms.
- Secrecy from family and friends.
- Binging for hours or days.
- Lack of ability or desire to quit using.
Some of our Lifeworks therapists are specialized in addiction recovery to help you set achievable and empowering short-term goals to overcome your addiction. Once sobriety is achieved, adaptive skills can be developed as you work to regain physical and emotional health. Then the therapist will explore with you the possible underlying causes of the use of a substance or behavior. Together, we can set long-term goals to rebuild damaged relationships, accept responsibility for actions, and release guilt.
With therapy, a person who has become dependent on drugs or alcohol is more likely to overcome an addiction. In particular, cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing therapy (a person-centered therapy that relies on the person’s inspiration to change), have been demonstrated as effective for many people.
Substance abuse can lead to substance dependence when both the amount of substance used and the rate of use increase. People who suffer from drug or alcohol addiction feel unable to control the impulse to use, and they often experience withdrawal symptoms in the sudden absence of the substance.
Alcoholism occurs when people become chemically dependent on alcohol, and those who are addicted may become ill if they suddenly stop drinking. Some also feel psychologically dependent on a substance and continue to use it, particularly under stressful circumstances or to alleviate other psychological problems.
Many times, when an individual suffers from substance abuse or other compulsive behaviors they feel a false sense of power, confidence, and euphoria. Therapy is intended to help individuals identify uncomfortable feelings and sources of distress in order to change, grow and evolve.
People who struggle with compulsivity and addictions are unlikely to overcome those habits unless they work to address underlying causes with a chemical or behavioral dependency therapist. Working with a therapist is an effective treatment for managing compulsive behaviors and addictions.
We understand that some people deny or are unaware that they have a problem with addiction, and sometimes a person’s substance dependency and abuse remain hidden from loved ones.
At Lifeworks, we believe in your privacy and are here to help you. We serve the community of Carrollton, Dallas, Plano, Frisco, and the surrounding cities. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, contact us today.