Addiction & Dependency

Addiction can be defined in many ways, one being as an unhealthy dependency on any substance or behavior that has negative/destructive consequences or causes significant distress for the person. If one is having trouble in relationships, work/career, emotional stability, or other consequences (i.e., run-ins with the law, health problems), these are red flags that are signaling a problem with addiction.

Addiction is not something that just happens. There are reasons behind addictive behavior. One main reason addictions start is because initially, the result of engaging in the behavior is pleasurable. Certain pathways in the brain are stimulated, which produce chemicals that are rewarding to the person, and thereby the behavior is reinforced. The addictive behavior, at least early on, is also often done socially, and serves as a common bond between people and increases feelings of acceptance in the group. Another powerful motive for engaging in addictive behavior is that it serves as an escape from painful feelings and situations. Then there is force of habit, which is a tendency to repeat behaviors that are known and familiar, as a source of comfort. The addiction becomes like an old friend, albeit a destructive one, and one that eventually isolates you from people and opportunities that are life-affirming.

Because the addiction becomes a central focus in a person's life, any threats to it are defended against. This is commonly observed as the addict's denial. On some deeper level, there may be some awareness of the negative consequences, but they are overshadowed by the pull of the addiction. It takes a lot of courage and perseverence to overcome an addiction, and it is hard, if not impossible, to do alone. So many changes need to occur in the person's lifestyle (mental, emotional, physical, social), and support is crucial. A guide or coach is often essential to help ensure success, but most important is the willingness of the addicted person to get real with themselves and stay committed to the goal of recovery. There are five steps to addiction recovery, outlined at Addiction Treatment.

If you are ready to overcome your addiction, help is available. Don't wait, call us now, and we'll get you started on your path to wellness.

Cognitive Therapy Associates (CTA) is a network of experienced therapists (licensed clinical psychologists and social workers) across New York City, Westchester and Long Island. We strive to match you with the right therapist for you, to help you to effectively manage and resolve issues related to addiction. To inquire about an appointment, please call us at (212) 258-2577.

Keywords: addiction, drug addiction, sexual addiction, sex addiction, gambling addiction, alcohol addiction, internet addiction, porn addiction, addiction treatment, food addiction, smoking, nicotine, tobacco, pornography, prescription drug, alcoholism, dependency, compulsion, compulsive, counselor.