Addictions

Addictions are not simply an indivdiual problem. The many types of addiction affect individuals, families, work and communities. Their negative effects are biological, social, emotional, cognitive and spiritual.

How I work with you regarding addictions

If you have the addictions concern, we would begin by looking at the history of the activities that are causing you difficulty and their impact on your life. Together we would explore the what triggers the use of an addictive substance or activity. We would examine what you have tried to control the addiction and would explore all available options. You would then be able to choose what strategies you want to try. Our next step would be to plan, implement and evaluate how a chosen strategy works for you. If your behaviour has negatively impacted on others, and you would like to improve that relationship, I would ask you to invite that person to join us in counselling.

If you are affected by the addiction of a loved one, we would begin by looking at the impact of the other person's addiction on you, and what you have tried to affect or control that person's behaviour. What will work will depend on what you, and the person with the problem are willing to do or not to do. We would explore the available options and choose, implement and evaluate these strategies and how they work for you and your loved one. If you wish to maintain or improve the relationship, I would ask you to invite that person to join us in counselling.

About Addictions

In societies around the world people are turning more and more to chemical and other stimulants to cope with or avoid the problems of their lives. The range of activities that can become addictive are:

alcohol
illegal drugs such as cocaine, marijuana, amphetamines
prescription drugs (such as methadone, T3's or other pain killers without a prescription)
gambling
pornography (often on the internet)
sex
eating

Most people engage in the above activities without harm, so it is important that you recognize some of the signs that show that you are becoming addicted:

NEGATIVE CONSEQUENCES: When the activity is more important than work, family, social relationships, financial stability and/or physical health.
TIME WASTED: When the activity is how most of your life is spent, this includes time spent thinking about, planning, obtaining and engaging in the activity.
DEPENDENCE: When you need to do more and more of the activity to get the same good feelings.
WITHDRAWAL: When you feel sick or anxious when you are not engaged in the activity.

The causes and effects of addictions affect the biological, social, psychological and spiritual health of people, families and communities.