Have you ever wondered what factors drive someone to an addiction? Society paints those with addiction as strung out, weak-willed, lesser than, and a moral failure. This misconception stems from an outdated belief system. Rather than seeing addiction in its true form, a treatable, acquired, chronic brain disease, it causes shame and guilt among many individuals who fall prey to it and can hinder addiction help.
Regarding recovery, shame and guilt are powerful emotions with their roots stemming from feelings of unworthiness, remorse, and inadequacy. Those struggling with addiction carry these emotions because of their past behaviours, actions, and the consequences of substance abuse.
Unfortunately, these emotions (resulting from a stigma) often perpetuate a cycle of self-destruction and can hinder recovery.
Guilt and shame can arise during recovery, manifesting in low self-esteem, self-isolation, and a profound underlying fear of rejection or judgment. They can also fuel a relapse (acting as a trigger) wherein people search for temporary relief from the discomfort of shame and guilt. Addressing these feelings is vital for personal growth and long-term recovery.
If you are looking for specific reasons why people become addicted, you may find general statements, but nothing specific. In fact, the aspects that contribute to addiction will vary from individual to individual. It has nothing to do with a lack of self-control or morality, but everything to do with the personal “why” that sparks a difference.
When we embrace this truth, we nullify the stigma associated with substance abuse disorders (SUD). It is at this point that healing (recovery) begins and shame decreases.
Statistics show that alcohol is the most common addiction, followed by opioids (9.7%) and cannabis (6.8%). In Canada, 21% (six million people) meet the diagnostic criteria for addiction, with 18% being alcohol dependence or abuse. Furthermore, 50% of those with substance abuse disorders have an underlying mental health issue.
Other factors contributing to addiction are as follows:
To gain an insight into the reality of addiction, we present three common scenarios in an attempt to nullify pre-existing cultural stereotypes.
Someone with undiagnosed depression may not understand why they experience periods of extreme sadness. However, they do know that if they have a drink, they start to feel better. As their body becomes used to a few drinks, they notice the “feel good” sensation is diminishing. So, to prevent feelings of hopelessness from returning, they self-medicate with more alcohol, resulting in an addiction.
A patient was in a bad car crash, leaving him in extreme, chronic, and unbearable pain. To cope, his physician prescribed opioids to relieve his discomfort. Unfortunately, his body (like most) developed a tolerance to the substance, and he needed more to maintain the same level of comfort.
After a while, he hit the “ceiling” for what can be prescribed, forcing him to look outside of legal methods to obtain opioids, leading to a serious addiction.
A young woman endures sexual and physical abuse at the hands of her partner, causing trauma. She doesn’t know how to handle all the conflicting emotions surrounding abuse, so she turns to marijuana to numb the pain, so she doesn’t have to deal with it, at least for a little while.
None of these issues is shameful in any way. All of them are common reasons why people may turn to substances for relief. They do not fit the “stigma” of the traditional “druggie”. Yet, often the damage done to people struggling is significant and hampers treatment.
By challenging negative thought patterns and beliefs regarding shame and guilt, you can reframe your negative narratives into positive mantras of resilience, self-worth, and forgiveness. For instance:
“I am not a loser. I may have had an addiction in the past, but I can overcome it. I am strong, a fighter, and my future doesn’t have to be defined by my past.”
Create self-compassion by treating yourself with understanding, kindness, and care. Addiction issues are not a moral failing, but a disease. Choose to acknowledge all efforts towards recovery. Even if you relapse, it doesn’t mean that you are a failure. The next moment offers you a second chance with new possibilities.
Talk to trusted family members, friends, or support groups for encouragement, empowerment, and validation. Sharing experiences with people who understand offers a sense of belonging and connection.
Mindfulness generates present-moment awareness. It allows you to accept your emotions and thoughts. Exercises such as deep breathing exercises and meditation help you cope with challenging emotions and build resilience.
Counselling and therapy create a safe space for people to explore their feelings. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) often helps people with addictions reframe their negative thinking and can foster self-empowerment.
Establishing realistic expectations for your recovery and for yourself allows you to celebrate milestones and progress (even small victories). It will help you know that healing takes patience and time.
Self-forgiveness is important for recovery. Acknowledging errors, committing to positive changes, and being responsible for your actions will help you move forward.
Addiction recovery isn’t about not using. It is found in reclaiming a sense of self-worth, finding your life’s purpose/meaning, and embracing vulnerability. Confronting guilt and shame using compassion and courage will help establish a road to sustainable transformation and healing.
At New Dawn Medical, we promote an environment of acceptance and ease. You will be greeted by understanding, compassionate staff members the moment you reach out for help.
We offer a comprehensive treatment plan for various substance abuse disorders, beginning with an initial consultation and getting you over the biggest hurdle: the discomfort of withdrawal symptoms. We take you through the process, allowing you to cope with negative emotions that are essential in maintaining long-term sobriety.
To receive addiction help, contact us at 647-625-8799 or call us toll-free at 1-833-456-DAWN. You can also email us at info@newdawnmed.com or contact us online here.
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