What Is An Addiction And Do You Have One?

While engaging in a particular behavior, one might feel a high, leading to positive and happy emotions. When the behavior ends, more is desired. The more this behavior is obtained, the more dependent the person likely becomes on it for maintaining their levels of contentment. Soon, giving up the activity is all but impossible, and all other life factors become less of a priority, thus causing further issues, as far as work and personal life. When this has occurred, it means that an addiction has formed and taken over one’s life.

Addictions are complex and come in many forms. A person could be addicted to a substance, such as alcohol, or a behavior, such as gambling. There are also different levels of addiction, and there are even addictions that are more socially acceptable than others, some being caffeine, the Internet, or cell phones. In whatever form they come, an addiction is not healthy and feeling that one sensation or behavior is contingent on happiness is not a good mindset. Looking for ways to abstain from the unhealthy activity will benefit not only the person but their relationships, as well.

Knowing whether or not an addiction has occurred is not always easy. The people who find themselves in the center of the addiction often go through a denial process before seeking help. Ironically, denial is a clear symptom that a problem has occurred. Other signs of addiction are social withdrawal, secrecy, irritability, depression, and an overall change in personality. Physical changes can occur, as well, such as shaking, seizures, and nausea. When a person tries to give something up, then discovers that this is not an easy or possible commitment, addiction has likely taken over their life.

When trying to spot an addiction, being observant is important. If relationships in a person’s life are suffering due to over-indulgence of a substance or behavior, then digging deeper into that issue may benefit everyone in the long run. If a person is neglecting activities they once enjoyed or engaging in more risky behavior, in hopes of obtaining a fix, then help is clearly needed. Looking into family history may help, as well. Addiction can be hereditary, so if a close family member has suffered, then that may offer more insight into the situation.

Getting rid of an addiction is a challenge, but it can be done, and those who are successful are obviously much better off. Asking for help is a major step. Countless organizations offer guidance and counseling, and the staff at these are in their line of work because they want to help people heal. Finding out what works for each individual is important. Everyone differs and will need to take different approaches towards beating their addiction. Most of all, it is important to remember that everyone is human and makes mistakes. Eliminate self-judgement and forgive. Then, move forward and start working towards a better life.