Addiction is often misunderstood as a moral issue and this makes it hard for those who are struggling with addiction to seek help.
Let’s think about this. Every behavior serves a purpose, it meets a need. When we are hungry we eat. When we are thirsty we drink fluids. When we are lonely what do we do? Notice what we do when we feel insecure? Yell & scream? Get a cocktail? Watch a sexual movie? Maybe buy too much online?
As long as the behavior reduces the emotional intensity, even if its temporary, our brain registers “Oh this thing worked” and this makes us repeat the specific behavior again as long as it is meeting a need.
There are several studies supporting impacts of trauma (particularly childhood) forming addiction.
There are several studing supporting mental health symptoms and forming addiction.
There are several studies supporting that with appropriate treatment combined with forming strong, healthy support system, those who struggle with addiction can recover and stay recovered.
No one signs up to have an addiction. Addiction wasn’t the end goal. Oftentimes, addiction and mental health go hand-in-hand and we cannot treat one without treating the other. Resources for help is below.
