Addictions have such powerful holds on people because they attack them from various angles. Addictions cause people to have emotional, physical and psychological strongholds. First, an addicted party has to deal with painful withdrawal symptoms that occur inside the body. Next, the individual has to suffer with a psychological dependence. Drug addiction can cause a person to commit crimes and get involved with drug offenses, as well. Lastly, an addicted person may deal with emotional problems such as anxiety, depression and irritability. The good news is that an addicted person can overcome even the most difficult problem. The following are five tips for helping to loosen the grip of addiction:
Admit That a Problem Exists
The first step to overcoming addiction is recognizing that an addiction does exist. Signs of addiction include fluctuating moods, a decline in work performance, altered personal relationships, physical withdrawal symptoms and strange sleep patterns. Once a person admits that at problem exists, he or she can try to combat it.
Find Support Through Loved Ones
Friends and family members can provide assistance for an addicted person. They can give that person a loving and non-judgmental ear when that person needs someone to talk to. Family members can help to support the person through cravings, as well.
Secure Rehabilitation Services
Securing reliable rehabilitation services is an excellent way to break the cycle of addiction. Local rehab centers can offer services such as detoxification, counseling, individualized therapy and alternative therapies.
Use Mind Over Matter
The mind over matter concept is one that works. A person can find strength if he or she focuses the mind on something bigger and more important than a drug high. Filling the mind with positive and healthy thoughts is an excellent way to remove recurring thoughts of seeking drugs and experiencing the mind’s “reward” system.
Change Your Lifestyle
Finally, changing one’s lifestyle can remove that person from the cycle of addiction. An environmental change to a non-depressing area can lower the person’s tendency to gravitate toward depression activities. Changing one’s friends will prevent the addicted person from getting involved with drugs repeatedly. Picking up some hobbies such as artwork, pottery, writing or playing a musical instrument can help to divert one’s attention to positive activities. Theorists suggest that it takes approximately 21 days to create a new routine. Therefore, an addicted person can start to create a new life within three weeks.
Starting the recovery process with the previously mentioned tips can help a person to grow out of addiction.
