Though they can seem harmless at first, addictive behaviors have the power to take over one’s life and lead to a slew of negative consequences if left unchecked. As such, those who find they are engaging in addictive behaviour can benefit tremendously from addressing these behaviors before they get out of hand. 

It can be helpful for both those experiencing that they have a proclivity for addictive behaviours and those around them to gain a deeper understanding of addictive behaviours and recovery strategies. 

How addiction can negatively impact one’s life

For many, the addictive behaviors that they engage in regularly may not seem like a big deal. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case, and it’s easier to spiral out of control than one might think. One of the most pertinent reasons for one to put an end to addictive behaviours is that addiction can oftentimes lead to negative health outcomes and, in some cases, even death. 

While one may be under the impression that it’s only by engaging in hard drugs that this is the case, the disheartening reality is that addiction to legal substances can result in harm and death as well. 

Take chewing tobacco for instance. Though it is typically legal for adults over the age of twenty-one to purchase and consume chewing tobacco, prolonged use can result in heart disease and various forms of cancer, which could potentially result in death. As such, those who find themselves addicted could potentially save their lives by quitting chewing tobacco. 

Another area in which addiction can wreak havoc on one’s life is in the area of finances. Oftentimes, whether it’s tobacco, alcohol, drugs, or junk food, addictions can be an extremely expensive pastime to engage in on a regular basis. This could even cause one to not be able to pay for things like rent or bills, potentially leading to poverty and homelessness. 

In addition to negative health effects and financial struggles, addiction can have a profoundly straining effect on those around the person affected. Addiction can cause family relationships to crumble and friendships to be broken. 

Oftentimes, it also puts those close to the affected individual in a difficult position when it comes to helping. While it can be difficult to cut someone off, sometimes it’s the best thing that one can do to help someone battling addiction get the wake-up call that they need. 

Recovery strategies for those struggling with addictive behaviours

While sometimes rehabilitation programs are the most effective ways to help curb addiction, there are times when people can take steps on their own to recover. Having an understanding of some effective recovery strategies can make this process easier and more accessible to those curious about exploring these avenues. 

Finding support

Whether it’s professionals, family members, or a local addiction group, having support during one’s attempt at recovery can make a tremendous amount of difference. When one feels isolated, it’s easier to slip back into addiction as a means of lessening uncomfortable feelings. Support from others can help provide one with the proper motivation to stay committed to recovery. 

In particular, having the support of others who have gone through addiction can be especially powerful. This is because these individuals have an in-depth understanding of how it feels to battle addiction and the fact that it’s possible to overcome it. As such, addiction support groups can be a potent and motivating force for those attempting to recover from addiction. 

Making a detailed plan

While a hypothetical idea is a good place to start recovery, making a detailed plan gives one a greater chance of success. This is because a plan makes the decision more concrete and helps clear up some of the uncertainty that can make the process seem more intimidating. 

The plan should contain several pieces of information such as the dates one chooses to reach certain milestones and the steps one will take to get there. By making a clear and specific step-by-step plan, one can have a clear path to success and recovery that is easier to stick to. 

Seeing a financial therapist

Though this is not a common course of action for those recovering from addiction, seeing a financial therapist can help one become aware of the negative effects that addiction is having on their finances. A financial therapist is someone who helps individuals reach financial security through better spending habits. 

What makes financial therapists such a valuable resource for those struggling with addiction is the fact that these professionals are trained in mental health counselling. This means that they’re familiar with ailments such as addiction and are better suited to help one make good decisions. 

In addition, reaching a sense of financial security can help one feel more motivated to continue the journey of recovery and say goodbye to addiction for good. 

There is hope

For those who are struggling with addiction, there is hope for a brighter tomorrow. By taking the proper steps and taking guidance from professionals one can break the shackles of addiction and start the path to recovery. Though it can be difficult at times, everyone has the ability to take matters into their own hands and start taking the steps they need to get clean today. 

Adam Mulligan did her degree in psychology at the University of Hertfordshire. He is interested in mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.