Addiction

What is addiction?
Addiction refers to the compulsive use and abuse of mind-altering substances like alcohol, tobacco, and drugs (including the abuse of prescription drugs). Addiction isn't just about getting a high or feeling good, but numbing and distracting underlying emotional pain. Recovery may include counseling, medication, and participation in a recovery program or support groups.
How does someone overcome addiction?
Recovery from addiction is a journey. The first step is moving away from denial, surrendering your struggle to God or a higher power, and finding support for change. Find help from others who will support you in your decision to find freedom—including family, friends, and others who have overcome addiction themselves.
It is also imperative to work a program in order to find long-lasting freedom. This may include an inpatient program (rehab), or outpatient recovery program or support group. Talk with your doctor to discuss any medication options if you are dealing with a substance addiction or underlying mood disorder. Counseling can be a powerful tool to help you identify triggers, uncover root issues, transform your thinking, and ultimately find healing. Many people in recovery find strength in their relationship with God (or a higher power). Spiritually-integrated counseling can help you integrate the resources of your faith to aid you in your recovery.
Addiction refers to the compulsive use and abuse of mind-altering substances like alcohol, tobacco, and drugs (including the abuse of prescription drugs). Addiction isn't just about getting a high or feeling good, but numbing and distracting underlying emotional pain. Recovery may include counseling, medication, and participation in a recovery program or support groups.
How does someone overcome addiction?
Recovery from addiction is a journey. The first step is moving away from denial, surrendering your struggle to God or a higher power, and finding support for change. Find help from others who will support you in your decision to find freedom—including family, friends, and others who have overcome addiction themselves.
It is also imperative to work a program in order to find long-lasting freedom. This may include an inpatient program (rehab), or outpatient recovery program or support group. Talk with your doctor to discuss any medication options if you are dealing with a substance addiction or underlying mood disorder. Counseling can be a powerful tool to help you identify triggers, uncover root issues, transform your thinking, and ultimately find healing. Many people in recovery find strength in their relationship with God (or a higher power). Spiritually-integrated counseling can help you integrate the resources of your faith to aid you in your recovery.
Counselors Providing This Service
Lisa Peterson, MAPC, LISACLisa is a Licensed Independent Substance Abuse Counselor who provides counseling for those dealing with substance abuse and those who are seeking recovery. She offers a spiritually-integrated approach for those who are wanting to implement the insights of their faith in their journey of recovery.
|
Bibliography
- Alavi, Seyyed Salman, et al. “Behavioral Addiction versus Substance Addiction: Correspondence of Psychiatric and Psychological Views.” US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, 2 Apr. 2012, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3354400.
- Mental Health: A Guide for Faith Leaders. American Psychiatric Association Foundation, 2016.