Addiction Counseling in Denver
Understanding Addiction to Find Support and Recovery
“In every crisis there is a message. Crises are nature’s way of forcing change—breaking down old structures, shaking loose negative habits so that something new and better can take their place.”
– S. Taylor
Addiction is a powerful phenomena that overwhelms and isolates. It alienates you from your life, your relationships, and most importantly, yourself. It takes courage to acknowledge that addiction may be impacting your life or the life of someone you care about. Therapy can offer a supportive pathway towards healing and lasting recovery, to get you out of addiction’s clutches and into your own self again.
What is Addiction?
Addiction is a complex, compulsive force characterized by engagement in a behavior or substance use despite negative consequences. Addiction has multiple roots including; biological: altering the reward system of the brain, leading to intense cravings; social: it is used for celebrations, funerals, sporting events, it’s on every corner; psychological: it appears to help treat anxiety, boredom, or whatever ails us, and transpersonal: a powerful force that has always been here and will always be here. Addiction isn’t a moral failing or a lack of willpower; it’s a treatable illness that requires understanding and compassionate care.
Addiction can manifest in many forms, including:
- Substance Use Disorders (alcohol, opioids, marijuana, stimulants, etc.)
- Behavioral Addictions (gambling, gaming, internet, sex or porn, doom/joy scrolling, etc.)
How Addiction Affects People
Physical Health
- Damage to organs (liver, heart, brain)
- Increased risk of chronic diseases
- Sleep disturbances
- Weakened immune system
Mental & Emotional
- Depression and anxiety
- Increased stress and irritability
- Feelings of guilt, shame, and isolation
- Difficulty concentrating
Relationships
- Strained relationships with family and friends
- Loss of trust and intimacy
- Social isolation
- Relationship conflict
Life & Responsibilities
- Difficulty maintaining work or school performance
- Financial problems
- Legal issues
- Neglecting personal hygiene
Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms
It can be difficult to recognize addiction in yourself or others. Some common signs and symptoms include:
- Loss of Control: Inability to limit or stop the behavior or substance use.
- Cravings: Intense urges or desires.
- Tolerance: Needing more of the substance or behavior to achieve the desired effect.
- Withdrawal: Experiencing physical or emotional symptoms when not engaging in the behavior or using the substance.
- Neglecting Responsibilities: Prioritizing using over work, school, or family obligations.
- Continued Use Despite Negative Consequences: Continuing the behavior or substance use despite experiencing negative impacts on health, relationships, or finances.
- Secrecy and Lying: Hiding the behavior or substance use from others and lying about it.
- Changes in Mood or Behavior: Experiencing significant mood swings, irritability, or changes in personality.
How Therapy Can Help
Therapy offers a safe and supportive space to explore the underlying issues contributing to addiction, develop coping mechanisms, and build a foundation for lasting recovery. It’s not about judgment; it’s about understanding, healing, and growth.
Therapy can help you to:
- Identify triggers and patterns: Understanding the situations, emotions, and thoughts that lead to addictive behaviors.
- Develop coping skills: Learning healthy strategies for managing cravings, stress, and difficult emotions.
- Address underlying issues: Exploring past traumas, relationship problems, or mental health conditions that may be contributing to the addiction.
- Improve communication and relationships: Learning how to communicate effectively and build healthy relationships.
- Build self-esteem and confidence: Developing a stronger sense of self-worth and belief in your ability to recover.
- Prevent relapse: Creating a plan for managing potential relapse triggers and maintaining long-term sobriety or recovery.
What to Expect from Addiction Therapy
The therapeutic process is collaborative, and the approach will be tailored to your individual needs and goals. We will work together to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your experiences, develop coping strategies, and build a fulfilling life free from the grip of addiction.
During therapy, you can expect to:
- Initial Assessment: A thorough evaluation to understand your history, current challenges, and goals for therapy.
- Goal Setting: Collaboratively establishing clear and achievable goals for your recovery.
- Individual Therapy: Regular sessions to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors related to addiction.
- Skills Training: Learning practical skills for managing cravings, stress, and triggers.
- Relapse Prevention Planning: Developing a personalized plan to prevent relapse and maintain long-term recovery.
- Ongoing Support: Continued support and guidance throughout your recovery journey.
