Addiction

Topics in Christian Counseling

"The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure." —1 Corinthians 10:13, NLT

Quick Facts

Addiction involves any behavior that one does that becomes compulsive and out of control despite negative consequences.
There are two types of addiction: substance addiction and behavioral addiction.
Substance addiction refers to the compulsive use of mind-altering substances like alcohol, tobacco, and drugs.
Behavioral addiction is the compulsive use of non-substance behaviors like pornography, spending, gambling, or workaholism.
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.

Actions Steps

Recovery from addiction is a journey. The first step is moving away from denial, surrendering your struggle to God, 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.

Scriptures

Book Recommendations

The Quick-Reference Guide to Addictions and Recovery Counseling by Dr. Tim Clinton and Dr. Eric Scalise
Chasing the Scream: The Opposite of Addiction is Connection by Johann Hari
Addiction and Grace: Love and Spirituality in the Healing of Addictions by Gerald May
The Four Seasons of Recovery for Parents of Alcoholics and Addicts by Mike Speakman

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.