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Why Determination Alone Isn’t Enough to Overcome Addiction | Health Eagle
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Why Determination Alone Isn’t Enough to Overcome Addiction

by Editorial Team July 20th, 2018 | Common Conditions
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Those who struggle with addiction often don’t realize there’s a problem until something happens or someone brings it to their attention. Once a person reaches the level of a full-blown addiction, the “decision” to use is no longer their own. Their brain essentially sends mixed signals to the body that this substance or behavior is a requirement, therefore, becoming a “natural” part of a person’s day. So, when a person hits rock bottom, realizes the error of their ways, or hears concerns from those they love, they may feel determined to release the grip addiction has over their lives, but that’s rarely enough.

You may have good intentions. You may even realize that what you’re doing is causing harm to you, your loved ones, your finances, your career, and more. Some try and succeed for a few days, but when faced with another traumatic experience or in the wrong environment, they end up relapsing. Persistence is certainly key when trying to kick an addiction, but this persistence often needs the support of professionals who work for programs for sober living in los angeles and other parts of the US. Addiction is a multifaceted disease which must be addressed from various angles.

Here is a look at why being determined to kick a habit like a drug or alcohol addiction is difficult without support:

• You’re No Longer in Control – Bad habits like drinking alcohol and using drugs start off as a choice. However, once your regular consumption begins to alter the chemical makeup of your brain, it is those substances that take over. Longing for a few brief moments of numbness or euphoria, your body “forces” you to want to use again – despite the consequences.
• There’s Something Bigger Going On – Most people don’t choose to become addicts, they often end up abusing substances as a means for covering up a bigger problem. The loss of a job, divorce, death of a loved one, property foreclosure, sexual abuse, childhood trauma, or even a car accident can send a person spiraling emotionally. Such substances can then become a temporary relief. You may be able to stop drinking or smoking for a few days, but the moment something emotionally difficult comes up, you’ll repeat those negative behaviors to find “relief”.
• You’re in the Wrong Environment – No matter how mentally strong you may feel, sometimes there are people, places, and things that can cause you to have weak moments. If you’re surrounding yourself with the wrong friends, participating in the wrong activities, in an especially stressful or emotional draining situation, this can be a toxic environment that makes it impossible for you to stay on the path to sobriety alone.
• Withdrawal symptoms – Depending on the types of drugs you’ve been using and how long you’ve been struggling with addiction, the body really becomes dependent upon these substances. Going cold turkey to try and rid your system of these harmful substances can cause severe reactions including fevers and cold sweats to vomiting and in some cases, death. When you start to feel these symptoms, determination often goes out the door and tempts you to use again to relieve the problem.

Why Rehab Improves Chances of Sobriety

Addiction recovery programs give you a fighting chance at really kicking the addiction. They not only have safe and proven methods for helping sufferers to cleanse their system of the harmful substances, but they offer effective therapies and a plethora of support that has helped determined participants remain sober for ten years and beyond. The facility provides a safe haven free from temptation to get sober, reflect on life, and build better connections. Individual and group therapies offer you an opportunity to share your experiences with others and learn more effective ways of coping with especially difficult problems. It’s a one-stop shop that takes multiple approaches to treat a complex disease.

The mere fact that you’ve realized you have an addiction is an accomplishment you should be proud of yourself for. If you’re going to beat the problem, the chances of you succeeding alone are slim. There are too many factors that can cause you to relapse that first need to be addressed. Participating in a drug or alcohol recovery program capitalizes on your determination by helping you to get sober and learn how to properly deal with unforeseen circumstances. These techniques, tools, resources, and support systems are often the foundation that keeps you from relapsing.

Brought to you by our friends at epiphanysoberliving.com.

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