Psychology of Addiction: Why It Happens and How to Treat It
Addiction is not just a bad habit, but a complex disease that impacts the brain and behavior. People often believe that addiction is a willpower problem, but in fact, it is strongly related to how our brains process stress, reward and emotional pain.
Getting a handle on the psychology of addiction can help people to see why it happens and that the treatments actually do work.
What Is Addiction?
Addiction is a chronic brain disease that leads people to seek out and use a substance or behavior, even when it becomes harmful. That may be drugs, alcohol, gambling, food or social media.
At bottom, addiction is a loss of control. It alters how the brain processes rewards and makes it more difficult for a person to make healthy choices.
Why Does Addiction Happen?
One thing seldom causes addiction. Rather, it is the result of a combination of genetics, personal psychology, social, and other environmental influences.
Here are some of the most common reasons people become addicted:
Brain Chemistry
Drugs and some activities overload the brain with dopamine one of the chemicals tied to pleasure. Over time, the brain becomes dependent on these external sources and is unable to produce enough dopamine on its own. This can make it difficult to feel happy without the substance.
Emotional Pain or Trauma
But people often also use substances as a way to cope with stress, anxiety, depression, or past trauma. The relief is fleeting, but the pattern of fleeing can offer an easy path to dependency.
Genetics and Family History
Research also suggests that addiction can run in families. The risk is higher if a parent or close relative has had problems with addiction.
Mental Health Disorders
Addiction and mental illness are often interrelated. Problems with mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, ADHD and PTSD can add a risk of addiction. And in some cases, the addiction begins as a form of self-medication.
Social Environment
Drug abuse can also be contagious and passed down through generations, so peer pressure, lack of support, easier access to illicit substances, and unstable family environments can all contribute to the risk of addiction.
Common Signs of Addiction
Addiction doesn’t always look exactly like we’ve seen it in movies. The warning signs can be insidious at first:
- Requiring greater amounts of the substance to achieve the same effect
- Loss of interest in the things you enjoy, such as hobbies or relationships
- Hiding or lying about use
- Mood swings or irritability
- Trouble at work or school
- Physical symptoms such as loss of weight or headaches
If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it might be time to seek help.
How Is Addiction Treated?
Addiction is a treatable disease, but treatment is often more complicated than simply putting the offending substance down. Long-term healing typically requires medical treatment as well as psychological.
Therapy
Working with a competent therapist also helps individuals get to the heart of their addiction. For example, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can train people how to cope with triggers and rewire harmful thought patterns.
If you would like local support, contact a licensed therapist in Cleveland who specializes in trauma therapy for PTSD.
Medication
Certain addictions, particularly those to opioids or to alcohol, can be treated with medication. These medications help to alleviate cravings and restore balance in the brain.
Group Support
There are programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or SMART Recovery to give you support from those who struggled with the same issues. It’s this community who helps them stay motivated and accountable.
Inpatient or Outpatient Rehab
For certain individuals, structured treatment programs have their place. In patient rehab provides around-the-clock care, and outpatient treatment enables people to live at home while attending therapy sessions and medical checkups.
Ongoing Care
Addiction is a chronic disease. On-going care, relapse prevention planning, and mental health support are all crucial aspects of recovery that keep people sober.
How to Destigmatize Addiction
Shame is a huge feeling of many folks with addiction, and it can prevent them from reaching out to request help. It’s also important to know that addiction is a disease, not a moral failing.
It is a sign of strength, not weakness, to ask for help.
When to Get Help
If addiction is compromising your life or the life of someone you love, don’t wait. Taking action early can save you from potentially serious health, financial or legal issues later.
Professionals, such as Syed Ahmed, a mental health expert, know the emotional and psychological triggers behind addiction, and can support people on the path to recovery.
Final Thoughts
Addiction is complex, overwhelming, but it can be overcome. Through the right mix of therapy, support and medical care, people can take their lives back and rebuild their sense of self.
If you’re ready to make a change, contact a licensed therapist in Cleveland or review the providers in your area on Psychology Today. You do not have to go on this journey alone.