The many downsides to addiction are well known. Addiction can damage your health, stall your career, undermine your relationships, ruin your finances, lead to mental health issues, and even cause death. No one with even a vague awareness of the problems addiction typically causes would choose addiction. Millions of Americans struggle with addiction every year and in some respects, the consequences of addiction are getting worse. For people already struggling with addiction, whether actively or in recovery, is there any upside?
Addiction is the shadow of some positive traits.
Addiction has always been with us. It has been recorded throughout human history, from the Lotus-eaters in The Odyssey to the opioid crisis of today. When a problem exists for that long, it’s usually the flip-side to some greater benefit. Addiction is the hijacking of the dopamine system, which typically used for motivation and goal-oriented action. There is some evidence to suggest that people who are highly driven with above average intelligence are more vulnerable to addiction. People who feel the most triumphant when they close a deal, beat a personal record, or achieve a long-term goal also tend to get more pleasure from drugs and alcohol, which makes substance use more alluring. There is no shortage of high-fliers who have have had recurring issues with substance use. People with a strong drive to succeed may also have some trauma that motivates them, such as childhood poverty or abuse. This can motivate someone to rise in the world, but it can also lead to depression, anxiety, and addiction.
You can learn a lot about yourself in overcoming addiction.
Most people don’t ask a lot of questions about themselves when things are going great. It’s when people keep making the same irrational choices despite obvious harm that people get serious about understanding themselves and their motivations. Addiction is often a red flag for deeper issues. It’s a signal that something is wrong and you need to pay attention. Treatment and therapy help you come to terms with your past, notice your patterns, and understand your motivation. Knowing your triggers and how to regulate your emotions are important skills for recovery and for life, and they’re skills most people will only learn haphazardly if they don’t have a reason to seek help.
Recovery can be a way of connecting with others.
Connecting with others is one of the best ways to protect against relapse. However, making friends as an adult is not always the easiest thing to do. Being active in a recovery community is a great way to make new friends who will have a positive influence on your life. Treatment for addiction can also help you improve your relationship with your family. Treatment should include family therapy to help families communicate better, respect boundaries, and support a loved one in treatment. Working on a healthier family dynamic improves your recovery and makes you happier.
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction or mental illness, we can help. Recovery Ways is a premier drug and alcohol addiction treatment facility located in Salt Lake City, Utah. We have the resources to effectively treat a dual diagnosis. Our mission is to provide the most cost-effective, accessible substance abuse treatment to as many people as possible. Request information online or call us today at 1-888-986-7848.
