Addiction Counseling in Framingham, MA—Addiction Counselors, Therapists
Addiction is a mental illness, characterized by the inability to stop using the desired substance if or when an individual wants to. In other words, these people can’t control their urge to drink, use, gamble, shop—depending on the substance or behavior. They long for fulfillment, of which they can only obtain from that substance or behavior. The comfort, satisfaction, and relief it brings them is impossible to pass up.
“Recovery is all about using our power to change our beliefs
that are based on faulty data.” –Kevin McCormick
Fortunately, there is help and treatment for those suffering with an addiction, be it to alcohol, another substance, or to an activity. In any case, a counselor can help you to manage your symptoms and succeed in your fight against your addiction. The mission at Thriveworks is to help people live happier, healthier lives—we want to help you do that by helping you with your illness. If you think you need or could benefit from addiction counseling, reach out to Thriveworks Counseling in Framingham. We’re ready when you are. Give us a call at (508) 392-4269 to schedule.
Physical, Emotional, and Behavioral Effects of Addiction
Addiction is dependence on a particular substance, thing, or activity. Be it alcohol, tobacco, fast food, gambling, shopping, the internet. Whatever the addiction is rooted in, it can cause physical, emotional, and/or behavioral changes. Keep an eye out for the following:
- Physical effects: Physical effects include weight loss, malnourishment, pale skin, bad body odor, and hyperactivity.
- Emotional effects: Addiction can lead to irritability, blame, denial, and a loss of interest in one’s favorite activities.
- Behavioral effects: It can also affect one’s behavior and cause one to isolate him or herself, lie to loved ones, spend a significant amount of money, and fail at work or school
Are you experiencing any of these effects as a result of substance use or a particular activity? If so, consider working with a therapist, psychologist, or counselor at Thriveworks. They can assess your symptoms and come up with a plan for helping you manage your addiction. Most importantly, they can lead you on a path toward becoming a happier, healthier, and more successful you.
How Does Addiction Counseling Work?
The signs are there. The beginning of your therapy journey will involve talking about your addiction, including the symptoms and effects that you are experiencing. In addition to the effects mentioned above, those with an addiction often…
- Plan to change their problematic behaviors, but fail to do so on their own
- Have failed responsibilities such as at work, at school, or at home
- Struggle in their personal and social lives
The first step in getting help is recognizing and admitting that you need help. Once you do that, you can actually seek treatment, and begin discussing your present and what you envision for your future with your counselor. If you’re feeling unsure about this whole addiction counseling thing, know that counseling is proven to help those with addiction.
How Can Addiction Help Prevent Relapse?
Addiction is often a battle you must fight for the rest of your life, as it is possible to relapse in any given moment. Fortunately, counseling can help to prevent relapse—your counselor is equipped to assist you in managing triggers of relapse include:
- Stress
- Peer pressure
- Social engagement
These factors can play into that strong urge to use or engage in a certain activity again. If you’re worried that you might struggle to avoid triggers of the like, remember that a counselor at Thriveworks in Framingham can help. They will customize a treatment plan that will best help you.
Meet with an Addiction Counselor or Psychologist at Thriveworks Counseling in Framingham
If you’re struggling with an addiction—to alcohol, drugs, gambling, shopping, smoking cigarettes, eating fast food, etc.—reach out to our office. Our providers are ready to use their expertise, training, and experience to help you manage your addiction and live a better life than before.
To book an appointment, all you have to do is give us a call at (508) 392-4269. A scheduling specialist will ask for some basic information and then set you up with a counselor who can help your unique situation. Remember: if you’re ready to start this journey, so are we. We look forward to it.