Intro To Addiction: A Journey of Compassion and Understanding
Written By: Meagan Restaino LCPC, CADC, PCGC
The grip of addiction is akin to a relentless storm, leaving a trail of devastation and anguish in its wake, ensnaring individuals and those around them. It's crucial to recognize that individuals in the throes of addiction are not inherently bad; rather, they are individuals battling profound sickness and suffering, trapped in their own mental prison. As a colleague once aptly put it, "They hold the key to their own freedom, but don’t feel the lump in their pocket which is the key yet to let them out." This symbolizes the many barriers that stand in the way of someone trying to navigate their way to a life of recovery.
It's widely acknowledged among those well-versed in addiction that without intervention, its trajectory often leads to incarceration, institutionalization, or even death, underscoring its insidious and progressive nature. They say in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), “it’s doing push-ups in the parking lot waiting for a weak moment, an in to destroy”. Addiction thrives on perpetuating suffering; its very survival hinges on the perpetuation of pain. Within recovery circles, per Alcoholics Anonymous, addiction is often described as "baffling, powerful, cunning," and notably, as a respected colleague of mine wisely observed, patient. Its reach knows no bounds, affecting individuals across all walks of life, irrespective of socioeconomic status or background. This indiscriminate nature is a stark reminder of its relentless grip on humanity.
It's important to note that while I mentioned Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) above, there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach to recovery. It's about finding the path that resonates best with each individual. As the saying goes in the addiction community, "There is more than one way to get sober," emphasizing the diversity of options available for those seeking recovery.
Addiction is undeniably a chronic medical condition, supported by a wealth of empirical evidence revealing significant neurobiological changes. A compelling method to underscore this reality is by contrasting the neural activity of individuals under the influence of cocaine with those in recovery after a 90-day period. A cursory online search provides ample visual evidence of the profound physiological impact of addiction. This comparison vividly illustrates the tangible manifestations of the disease, solidifying its status as a bona fide medical concern. While this comparison offers valuable insight, again, it's essential to recognize that understanding addiction entails delving into its multifaceted nature—a dynamic interplay encompassing biological, psychological, and social dimensions.
Moreover, personal encounters within recovery circles have afforded me insight into the profound impact of addiction, even among those actively pursuing sobriety. Instances where individuals, in response to a peer's tragic overdose, seemingly trivialize the situation with remarks that shocked themselves like, "That must have been some good s**t!" which serves as poignant reminders of addiction's enduring hold and the impulsive nature it can evoke, even amidst recovery efforts.
Indeed, those navigating the path of recovery attest to its arduous nature, marked by recurrent cravings, triggering stimuli, and persistent urges. This acknowledgment underscores the lifelong trajectory of healing, wherein resilience is continuously cultivated. A particularly resonant anecdote shared by a former client—a testament overheard at a support group meeting—captures this sentiment: "Should I make it until midnight, I shall celebrate a quarter-century of sobriety." This declaration not only epitomizes the tenacity required but also underscores the growth-oriented mindset inherent in the ongoing journey toward recovery.
It’s astounding. Unlike many other illnesses, addiction often manifests in behavioral symptoms—lying, cheating, stealing—eliciting judgment and condemnation from a society largely uninformed about its complexities. This pervasive misunderstanding can manifest in stigmatization, blame, and a gross oversimplification of addiction as a moral failing. However, true understanding requires transcending these misconceptions and embracing empathy and compassion. It involves acknowledging the person behind the struggle, and using person-first language to emphasize that their affliction does not define them. While this understanding may not erase the pain or trauma caused, it fosters a more compassionate and supportive environment for recovery. Indeed, recovery is a journey fraught with challenges, marked by a profound sense of remorse and accountability for past actions. Yet, it also represents a path toward redemption and healing, where individuals reclaim their identity and rebuild their lives free from the shackles of addiction.
Here is some perspective: One would never blame someone for having cancer. Instead, we feel empathy for them as they go through such a great battle for their life. In stark contrast, people are quick to jump to a moral model when it comes to addiction-related suffering since the presentation of those symptoms can be perceived as being a “bad person”. However, these symptoms of behavioral issues reflect the actuality they are deep-cut in their addiction. Those respected in the clinical community have typically adopted a disease model of addiction. Again stressing that addiction is complex.
To summarize, understanding addiction does not mean excusing the person from making amends or doing whatever relational repair is required after entering the life of recovery, as addiction has a profound effect on families in active addiction as well. What we are trying to do is educate the general public about the benefit of compassion and support by using person-first language versus labeling someone an “addict” as people struggling with addiction are not defined by their condition. In a college course one of my professors put this further into perspective by sharing, “you wouldn’t call me wheelchair-Bobby. You would say Bobby who is in a wheelchair to discuss my abilism”. Another takeaway is that to reduce the stigma of addiction is to cultivate safe environments where people feel safe seeking help without fear, judgment, or discrimination.
Addiction is a significant challenge affecting people from all walks of life, stemming from both physical, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Understanding and empathy are key to providing meaningful support for those on the path to recovery. Let's work together to reduce stigma and create a compassionate environment where individuals feel empowered to seek help.
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Take the first step towards understanding and healing from addiction. I invite you to schedule a session with me, where I offer expertise and support tailored to both individuals in recovery and family members seeking to navigate this complex journey with empathy and knowledge. Together, let's embark on a path towards empowerment and recovery.
Contact Prospering Minds Counseling today if you or someone you know could benefit from professional treatment.
Prospering Minds Counseling, led by Carly Wolfram, MA, LCPC, offers compassionate and evidence-based therapy services to support individuals, couples, and families on their mental health journey. Whether you're facing anxiety,
