Addiction has many faces
For some people, addiction is straightforward: a compulsive, strong urge to use and re-use alcohol or narcotic drugs. This type of addiction is the most studied and understood: your body becomes physically dependent on the substance, leading to a cycle of use, attempts to stop, relapse, increased use in higher amounts to get the same "high," and a rollercoaster of highs and crashes (or inebriation and hangovers). For others, their "drug" of choice is not necessarily addictive physiologically - but the cravings, compulsion, and obsession can be just as strong: an addiction to food (binge eating), an addiction to sex or gambling, or an addiction to a particular activity such as viewing Internet porn that leads to relationship or professional problems. Although some may say calling these behaviors "addictions" is controversial, Addiction Treatment Programs does not make such a judgment. The purpose of this site is to inform the visitor about the various types of addictions, how to know if a behavior has developed into an addiction, and what your options are for treatment.
Do you know someone who needs help?
Often, the addicted person has little self-awareness. This is traditionally called "denial." There are many reasons for denial, but the most essential reason for denying there is a problem in the face of overwhelming evidence to the contrary is this: if the addict admits they have a problem, they may have to stop the behavior. The last thing an addict wants is to give up their drug of choice. It can give them a feeling of utter terror to imagine life without their "substance," whether that be alcohol, drugs, or compulsive behaviors.
What can you do to help such a person?
The first step is not to enable the addicted person. If you have been making it easier for them to partake in their addiction, stop. This means that you:
- Refuse to serve as an alibi or excuse for missing work, school, or other obligations
- Refuse to call in sick for them or otherwise be a "front" when they are suffering the aftereffects of a binge
- Do not adjust your schedule, obligations, or work to accomodate them when they are impacted by the consequences of their addiction
- Do not cover up for them in any way
- Start taking care of your own issues that have come from being involved with an addict: Al-Anon, therapy, or some other way to reach out and get help, and let them know why you are doing it
Have you considered a professional intervention?
If you are frustrated, worn-out, or just plain have too much anxiety about confronting the addicted person, you might consider hiring a professional addiction intervention specialist.
