How to Overcome The Cycle of Addiction?

Addiction is a disease that does not discriminate and it can affect a person regardless of age, background and circumstance. Addiction can manifest in various forms including substance use, gambling, sex, work and problematic use of technology. Addiction is thought to ‘hijack the brain’, in that many of the same areas of the brain that are responsible for promoting behaviors for survival get ‘hijacked’ to reinforce the addictive behavior. The person becomes increasingly trapped in this cycle as meaningful activities get replaced with behaviors or actions to support the addiction. As this condition progresses, consequences and difficulties onset, which can lead a person to further use substances or addictive behaviors as a means of escaping distress, further entrenching them in the problem. This cycle can be extremely challenging to break, but it can be done; and even in the most dire circumstances there is hope that recovery is possible.

6 Steps to Break the Cycle of Addiction

Overcoming addiction is a journey of courage, resilience, and self-exploration. It's also a journey that millions have embarked upon and have been successful in establishing recovery. Here are some steps you can take to break the cycle of addiction:

1. Acknowledge the Problem:

The first step in overcoming addiction is acknowledging it as being a problem. Denial often serves as a barrier to recovery, perpetuating the cycle of addiction to continue. Admitting to having a problem can be difficult, especially given that addiction is often a misunderstood condition that is highly stigmatized. It is important to recognize that acknowledging that you have a problem is not a sign of weakness, but rather an act of courage; it requires facing uncomfortable truths and embracing hard realities. By acknowledging the problem, individuals can then start taking steps to work towards solutions. If you are concerned about your substance use or addictive behaviour, please contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive assessment services.  

2. Seek Support:

No one should face addiction alone. Seeking support from friends, family, psychologists, counsellors, physicians or support groups (e.g., Alcoholics Anonymous , Narcotics Anonymous, SMART Recovery, Dharma Recovery) can provide encouragement and guidance as one embarks on the path of recovery. Surrounding oneself with informed and natural supports can create a network of accountability and can reinforce the belief that recovery is possible. Professional help, such as therapy or counselling, can also offer specialized assistance tailored to each person’s needs. Learn more on how our addictions counselling services can help.

3. Commit to Change:

Recovery from addiction is often not a linear journey, and there are often setbacks and challenges along the way. Individuals who successfully establish themselves in recovery are often those who are willing to learn from mistakes and keep working towards change. Recovery requires dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to work on oneself. Each day presents an opportunity to break free from old patterns and make new choices.

Holding a growth mindset, or an orientation that recovery can be learned, is not easy when faced with setbacks; but it is important to view change as a work in progress rather than a final destination.

4. Cultivate Healthy Habits:

Breaking free from addiction involves more than just abstaining from harmful behaviors, it requires replacing them with healthy habits. Engaging in activities that promote physical, emotional, and mental well-being can fill the void left by the cessation of an addictive behaviour. Exercise, mindfulness practices, hobbies and meaningful relationships can all serve as important replacements which can promote recovery and reduce the risk of lapses.

5. Self-Compassion:

Throughout the journey of overcoming addiction, it is important to practice self-compassion. Addiction can stem from deep emotional wounds or trauma, and healing requires gentleness and understanding. Examples of this include acknowledging progress and forgiving setbacks with kindness and curiosity rather than judgment. 

Self-compassion allows individuals to cultivate a positive relationship with themselves, which can help lay the foundation for challenging negative beliefs which may inadvertently serve to sustain the cycle of addiction. Mindfulness practices such as meditation, yoga and mindful walking can be especially helpful in cultivating compassion.

6. Celebrate Milestones:

Milestones achieved in the journey of overcoming addiction are important to celebrate and honour. In treating other chronic illnesses, we don’t shy away from recognizing markers of progress. However, because of the shame and stigma associated with addiction, it is all too common for individuals to minimize their successes rather than celebrate achievements.  

Whether it's one day, one week, or one year of recovery, celebrating milestones reinforces the progress and serves as a source of motivation to continue moving forward. Doing so helps to serve as reminders that despite the challenges, recovery is possible - one day at a time.

Overcoming addiction is a challenging undertaking, but recovery is possible. It requires support, courage, perseverance, and a willingness to embrace change. 

To learn more about how we can help you on your journey to recovery please contact us.