It used to be that a person’s problem with an addiction was not discussed in public, therefore many people didn’t get the help they needed because they were fearful. Now it seems, many people suffer with addictions, and so the subject can be broached without leaving a person feeling ashamed – especially if they are seeking guidance or help.
The following definitions as worded from Wikipedia describe in part what addiction means today:
The term “addiction” is used in many contexts to describe an obsession, compulsion, or excessive psychological dependence, such as: drug addiction (e.g. alcoholism), video game addiction, crime, money, work addiction, compulsive overeating, problem gambling, computer addiction, nicotine addiction, pornography addiction, etc.
The term addiction is also sometimes applied to compulsions that are not substance-related, such as problem gambling and computer addiction. In these kinds of common usages, the term addiction is used to describe a recurring compulsion by an individual to engage in some specific activity, despite harmful consequences, as deemed by the user himself to his or her individual health, mental state or social life.
If you are one of the many recovering addicts, be extremely proud of yourself for taking that first step. Doing something about it is huge and you are to be commended. With that in mind what are some tips a recovering addict can use that are realistic and helpful?
Here are seven tips that may help you in your efforts to remain addiction free:
1. Continued Effort Necessary
“Addiction is a disorder of the entire self,” says Dr. Robert L. DuPont. Hence, conquering addiction must address the whole person. It must change your entire value system. This takes time. There is no shortcut to recovery. Any promise of hasty recovery will only foster a hasty relapse.
2. Find New Friends
Friends are a major influence on youths who abuse alcohol. You will therefore find it hard to stop drinking if you hang out with drinkers. A person needs to choose his associates carefully, this same principle can be applied to any addiction.
3. Learn To Be Happy
After withdrawal, the recovering drug addict must work on the long-term problem of learning to live a happy life without drugs.
4. Consider The Consequences
By thinking about, not its pleasures, but its consequences, the addiction can become your enemy and not your friend. For example: A gambler may lose their family, their house, their job…a person addicted to porn may likewise lose their mate, become self centered, lose respect, etc…you get the idea.
5. Tip for pornography addicts
Make sure that your computer is set to block access to pornographic sites. Also, avoid clicking on links in unsolicited e-mails. Put your computer in the living room where everyone can see it, or get rid of it all together.
Remember, life is possible without it.
6. Seek Professional Help If Needed
Do not hesitate to seek professional help if needed. If you already have professional help lined up, make sure you can remain in contact with them during your period of recovery.
7. For Those Spiritually Inclined
Some feel their addictions cannot be conquered on their own and need something more. Quite a few have found help by studying the Bible and praying to God. Perhaps that might something that would help you too.
To learn more about how to overcome alcohol, drug, food or porn addiction visit us today.
