If you’re ready to overcome substance abuse and addictions in your life, Dr. Christopher Seavey of Naples, FL, offers personalized addiction treatment to help.
Understanding Addiction and the Role Therapy Can Play
Addiction is often misunderstood. Many people think it’s just a bad habit or that the person doesn’t have the willpower to fight it. Some people view addictions as a choice – something you can just stop if you really want to. The truth is that addiction is much deeper than simply a bad habit or a choice. People often feel guilt and shame when they can’t walk away, and walking away is typically too difficult to do alone. In this guide, Dr. Seavey of Naples, FL, shares the truth about addiction and how addiction treatment can help.
Understanding Addiction
Addiction comes in many forms. Most people know that smoking, drinking, and illegal drugs are common addictions. However, there are many others, including eating, gambling, shopping, and more.
These addictions often begin when someone is looking for some form of control in their life or an escape. The action they take impacts the brain by activating the reward system, causing a feeling of pleasure. It becomes a coping mechanism when something unpleasant goes on. Eventually, the desire for that feeling becomes so intense that it drives their actions.
For example, imagine having a stressful day. You come home and decide you want some ice cream. This is a normal response, as sugary substances stimulate the production of serotonin, which is a calming natural hormone. You feel better after eating the ice cream.
The next time you are stressed, you have the same response. Your brain begins to associate sugary foods with comfort, which leads you to eat more and more. You then feel guilty for eating so much and gaining weight, which leads you to eat more because you are now stressed again. It is this type of cycle that makes addiction so hard to beat on your own.
How Therapy Can Help
Therapy is integral for beginning to understand your addiction and the root cause of it. Once the root is identified, you and your therapist will work together to determine healthier coping mechanisms and develop your self-awareness so that you aren’t caught off-guard by your emotions. It can help you leave the guilt and shame behind you while building your self-confidence. It can also help you reduce or eliminate your cravings and improve your overall mental and emotional health.
Overcome your substance abuse and addictions by calling (239) 595-7775 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Seavey. He offers in-person addiction treatment in Naples, FL, and online throughout the state.
