Addiction

Addiction/Substance abuse is a complex condition characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use despite harmful consequences. It can involve a variety of substances, such as alcohol, nicotine, opioids, cannabis, and stimulants, among others. Addiction including process and behaviourial addiction can profoundly impact a person’s physical, emotional, and social well-being, and it can be challenging to overcome without proper treatment and support.

Alcohol abuse refers to excessive drinking with negative consequences, such as health problems, relationship issues, and difficulties at work or school. It can also lead to addiction, where the person becomes physically and psychologically dependent on alcohol.

Smoking is a form of substance abuse that involves inhaling tobacco smoke. Nicotine is the addictive substance in tobacco, and it can have adverse effects on a person’s health, including an increased risk of heart disease, lung cancer, and other health problems.

Addiction therapy from a trauma-informed lens recognizes that addiction is often a coping mechanism for individuals who have experienced trauma. Trauma can manifest in different ways, such as physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, neglect, or abandonment, resulting in shame, guilt, anger, and fear. These emotions can be overwhelming and challenging to process, and addiction can temporarily escape these feelings.

Dr. Gabor Maté, a renowned addiction expert, emphasizes the importance of understanding the link between trauma and addiction. He believes addiction is not a choice or a moral failing but a response to pain and suffering. He argues that many individuals who struggle with addiction have experienced adverse childhood experiences, such as neglect, abuse, or abandonment, which have left them with deep emotional wounds. These individuals often use drugs, alcohol, or behavioral addiction to cope with pain or alleviate their emotional distress.

A trauma-informed approach to addiction treatment acknowledges the underlying distress or trauma that may drive addictive behaviors. It provides a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment for individuals to explore their experiences and emotions. It recognizes that healing from addiction requires addressing the root causes of addiction, including unresolved trauma, emotional distress, and pain.

Process addictions, such as compulsive shopping or excessive online activity, and sexual or porn addictions can also stem from unresolved trauma and emotional struggles. These behaviors temporarily relieve emotional pain but can develop into harmful patterns. Our treatments for addiction address substance abuse and extends its transformative principles to process addictions, helping people gain insight into their behaviors, heal from trauma, and develop healthier coping strategies. Our expertise lies in alcohol and smoking cessation, sexual or porn addiction, and process addiction management, offering personalized, evidence-based treatment to empower people on their journey toward lasting positive change.