Overcoming an Addiction – Counselors and Therapists in Reading, PA
Addictions are a real problem and it can include many things such as alcohol, drugs, medications, tobacco, caffeine, gambling, sex, food, exercise, shopping, or even the internet. Addictions can happen to anyone. However, it often destroys families, relationships, and has the potential to ruin your future and your life.
What is an Addiction?
No one starts out thinking they will be addicted to something. It often starts out innocently and then develops into a bad habit, which ultimately becomes destructive. Dependency is the key word and when you feel that you have lost control or have no control over it, it is often the sign that it may be an addiction. Addictions have a way of consuming you until you have lost a part of your freedom as the disease steals and controls a part of your brain, almost as if like a bad virus in a computer. Addictions produce changes in your thinking, behavior, and in your body physiologically.
It literally changes your brain circuits. Addictions produce intense activation of the reward system in your brain pathways and produces pleasure, often referred to as the “high.” Many things can become addictive, although not all addictions are considered a mental health disorder.
How Do I Know If I Have an Addiction?
You may find yourself using substances or engaging in addictive behaviors more frequently, using larger amounts, and despite wanting to quit; you find yourself unsuccessful. You may spend more time and energy in activities trying to get the substances or engaging in the behavior and then more time recovering from its effects. You may also experience withdrawal symptoms from certain substances and find yourself using more, just to avoid them. You may start to lie to conceal your addiction from others or steal to finance your addiction. You may also start to feel distressed, anxious, depressed, and more irritable. You may feel like you are losing control. Sometimes you may feel that you still have control, but others may notice and feel that you don’t. You may feel embarrassed, angry, or even deny the existence of a problem.
How Can Thriveworks-Reading/Wyomissing Help?
At Thriveworks Reading-Wyomissing, we have experienced, credentialed, and licensed counselors and coaches who are only a phone call away. We can help you determine if you have an addiction and get you the help that you need. We understand how serious addictions can be and we will try our best to get you seen within 24 hours. Call now. Don’t struggle alone any longer. We know that it may be difficult to take the first step and call, but we have caring and compassionate counselors and coaches to help you get your life back and travel the journey together with you. Experience life again. Let’s get you back on the right track and on the road to restoration. Finally be free!
“Don’t’ wither, survive and thrive!”
Sincerely,
Your Team at Thriveworks Reading Counseling
