No two addiction stories and journeys are the same. The cause of addiction can be different for each person; for some, it is trauma; for others, it could be physical pain, mental illness, or a combination of any of these. The most important fact about the journey being unique is that everyone needs their own path to sobriety. Therefore, each treatment plan must be tailored to each individual with as much input from them as possible to give them the best possible opportunity for successful long-term recovery.
What Is Addiction?
Addiction is a chronic progressive disease of the brain. Addiction causes individuals to seek a substance or activity regardless of the negative consequences. Substances change the way the brain communicates with the rest of the body. Substances stimulate the brain’s reward center and cause someone to crave more and more of that reward; this creates a pattern called addiction.
What Is at the Root of Addiction?
- Trauma
- Mental Illness
- Family history
Locating the root of addiction is crucial to help individuals determine what treatment works best for them.
Why Do Only Some People Become Addicted?
A combination of factors can make individuals more susceptible to addiction. They are:
- Trauma
- A mental illness
- Environmental factors
- Genetics
- Toxic relationships
Why Is Addiction Difficult to Overcome?
- Stereotyping People
- Stigma
- Negative attitudes about addiction
- Misinformation
- Judgment
- Addiction is not a choice
- Shame
- Guilt
Can Addiction Be Cured?
Addiction is a chronic progressive disease and being “cured” is not really the objective. The goal is to live a successful life in spite of the chronic disease. Getting and staying sober is hard but not impossible. As with any chronic disease, relapses happen. Relapse is not a failure; it is a redirection. There is no time limit on recovery, it is a lifelong process that offers hope and a future.
Addiction is not poor character, nor is it a lack of discipline. Having an addiction does not take away from your worth. You deserve the opportunity to make your life better. The Guest House can offer you assistance through our many integrated options to help you turn things around and get you on a path to recovery. The Guest House realizes that everyone’s path to addiction is unique, so the treatment plan for everyone must be just as individual and unique. To find partners for a successful recovery, call The Guest House today at (855) 483-7800