Serving out of Oklahoma City, providing Online Appointments throughout the state of Oklahoma
An addiction is a chronic disorder in which an individual is blinded by a substance, or engages in an activity, that gives them an immense amount of pleasure but has become detrimental to their everyday life. Compulsive behaviors and addictions can temporarily provide confidence, control, validation or other emotions lacking in one’s life, but the behavior may not stop until the root of the problem is addressed.
Addiction changes the brain through the limbic system, also known as the “brain reward system.” This part of the brain is responsible for producing feelings of pleasure and will manifest thoughts such as, “I deserve this,” or “Let’s do that again.” The abuse of addictive substances and behaviors triggers this system which can prolong a continuous cycle of destructive behavior.
Common addictions include but are not limited to:
- Drug or alcohol abuse
- Gambling
- Internet
- Shopping
- Food
Seek Professional Assistance
People who have developed an addiction may be unaware that it is out of control, which is why counseling is an essential part of working through and managing this condition. An addiction of any sort can be exhausting and one should never go through the recovery process alone.
When mental health is in disrepair and collapse feels imminent, setting a new course seems impossible. The pleasures and certainty of existence seem lost. Using street drugs and alcohol promises to help. It’s a lie! Restoring our best self is like stripping away layers of paint from an old piece of wood. It takes a commitment to revision friendships and family, or perhaps a job, until deterioration is replaced with a narrative of renewal. Counseling can help.