Addictions

Addiction & Recovery

The dependence on alcohol and drugs are disorders of the body, mind, and spirit. Wellness, the flipside of illness, is all about looking after all facets of the human condition. It revolves around how well the body, mind, and spirit are connected. Any condition affecting one area can topple life balance causing a person to fall ill. Even during the first several days after an individual quits excessive drinking, he/she may experience alcohol withdrawal symptoms.

Individuals drink alcohol or do drugs to escape, relax, or reward themselves. Over time the occasional intake of alcohol or drugs can make one believe that they need these things to enjoy life or cope with the complexities of life, gradually leading to dependence.

Even though recovery from a habit or an addiction is difficult it is possible. The rewards are a well-balanced life, improved relationships, forgiveness, and even joy.

The fact is that every individual is more than the sum of their parts- like mind, body, and soul- that perform collectively to make us who we are. They also connect us to the environment, and to a higher power.

Signs of Addiction :

• Lack of control over mind and body.
• Desire to limit the use but not able to do so.
• Most of the time spent trying to acquire a substance.
• Cravings or an intense desire to use their drug.
• Lack of responsibility.
• Problems with relationships.
• Loss of interest.
• Continue doing drugs and alcohol despite dangerous circumstances.
• Lack of tolerance.
• Physical and emotional withdrawal.
• Addiction is basically a brain disorder.

Mind

Scientifically proven research shows that teenagers who smoke marijuana as a result of stress, anxiety, depression, or teenage issues are more prone to develop a serious mental disorder compared to those who do not consume this drug. Other research shows that kids using marijuana are three times as likely to become a school dropout. If marijuana can wreak such havoc, imagine the devastation crack, meth or pills could do to the mind.

Physical

Overconsumption of drugs and alcohol harms the body in many ways. It can interfere with the immune system and cause damage to vital organs like the liver, lungs, pancreas, and the brain. Along with that, it impairs one’s thoughts and emotions.

Spiritual

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) came long before present rehabilitation centers. The people of this group with excessive alcohol consumption disorder believed that they would fail without a connection to a higher power. The members of AA refer to it as a disease of the spirit. What they actually mean is that overuse of drugs and alcohol affects the judgment of a person, which often leads them to do things they regret and are damaging to the soul. This makes spiritual healing a crucial part of recovery. Letting go of the past and forgiving anyone, even yourself, is possibly the hardest and strongest thing to do. Though it is a time consuming process, it frees the soul from feelings of regret, despair, and shame.

When an addict decides to tackle their addiction by going to an alcohol and drug rehabilitation center, receiving therapy, or seeking a self-directed treatment program, support is necessary. Don’t risk doing it alone. Recovering from alcohol abuse or drug addiction becomes easy when a person has the encouragement, comfort, and guidance of loved ones.