Addiction is a disease characterized by the compulsive need to seek out and engage in a particular substance or activity, despite the negative consequences. It can be an addiction to substances such as alcohol and drugs, or behaviors such as gambling, gaming, or shopping. The behavior then negatively impacts the quality of the individual’s live and their loved ones. It’s important to note that addiction is not simply a lack of willpower or a moral failing, rather it can be influenced by genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. If you or a loved one are struggling with any form of addiction, talking to a psychiatric provider at Sacred Psychiatric is the place to start. Seeking mental health services in San Diego will allow you to boost your mental health.
Impacts of Addiction
In addition, engaging in addictive behaviors becomes enjoyable, initially. However, within time, as the addictive behaviors remain, it can worsen one’s physical and mental health. Often, symptoms of anxiety and insomnia worsen in the midst of addiction.
Of note, mental health disorders can increase the risk of developing an addiction as individuals may turn to substances or behaviors as a form of self-medication. Chronic substance use may initially provide relief, numbness, or feelings of euphoria, but over time they alter brain chemistry impairing its natural ability to regulate mood.
With persistent engagement in the behavior, addiction affects the brain’s reward system, leading to cravings and loss of control. This condition can alter how a person thinks, feels, and behaves, making it challenging to break free without the right support and intervention.
Ongoing addiction often strains relationships with loved ones, leading to social isolation. Maintaining employment becomes difficult as addiction progresses, leading to financial instability. Illicit substance addiction can result in legal troubles, including arrests and incarceration.
Recovery
An integrated approach to treatment is crucial. Individuals struggling with addiction must be evaluated to rule out mental health conditions. As mentioned above, individuals often turn to addictive behaviors as means to cope with underlying symptoms however those same addictive behaviors can worsen and increase risk of developing mental health disorders. Breaking this cycle requires addressing both issues in tandem. It’s important to discuss all the underlying symptoms with a psychiatrist in San Diego.
Part of the recovery process is recognizing that there is a problem; one must be able to accept that the addictive behaviors is having a negative impact on their life despite their ability to stop the behavior. This may require that the individual takes into consideration the concern of a family member or loved as often the one struggling in addiction fails to recognize its impact.
Seeking professional help is encouraged, as certain addictions, such as substances require medical detoxification in a structured environment. In other areas of addiction, talking to a therapist who specializes in addiction and learning healthier coping skills may contribute to overcoming the battle of addiction.
Prioritizing a healthy lifestyle is essential to recovery. Focusing on wellness, such as good sleep hygiene, a healthy diet, exercising, maintaining a strong social support network, and learning tools to manage stress can help overcome addiction.
If you’re seeking comprehensive evaluation and personalized care for addiction, consider reaching out to Sacred Psychiatric in San Diego. Our experienced team is dedicated to empowering individuals grappling with addiction through thorough treatment and ongoing support. We understand that addiction is a multifaceted challenge requiring tailored approaches, and we’re here to guide you through every step of your recovery journey. With our compassionate and evidence-based interventions, we aim to help you reclaim control over your life and cultivate lasting wellness. Don’t face addiction alone let Sacred Psychiatric be your partners in healing.