Addictions & Habits
Breaking free from unwanted patterns and reclaiming control
Understanding Addictions & Habits
Addictions and problematic habits are patterns of behaviour that can feel extremely difficult to control despite negative consequences. They can involve substances like alcohol or drugs, or behaviors such as gambling, gaming, or other compulsive activities. What often begins as a way to cope, feel pleasure, or escape discomfort can develop into a cycle that significantly impacts your wellbeing.
These patterns aren't simply about willpower or moral failing. They involve complex changes in the brain's reward and motivation systems, alongside psychological, social, and sometimes genetic factors. Though challenging, recovery is absolutely possible with the right support and approaches that address not just the behaviors themselves but also the underlying issues and triggers.
More Common Than You Might Think
Addiction and problematic habits affect millions of people worldwide, yet many suffer in silence due to shame, stigma, or fear of judgement. These patterns can develop for various reasons:
- Attempts to manage stress, anxiety, or emotional pain
- Neurobiological vulnerabilities and genetic factors
- Environmental influences and early life experiences
- Social and peer pressures
- Gradual habituation to substances or behaviors
- Co-occurring mental health conditions like depression or anxiety
- Life transitions or challenges that overwhelm usual coping mechanisms
Addictions and compulsive habits can include:
- Alcohol dependency
- Drug use (prescription or recreational)
- Gambling
- Internet or gaming addiction
- Compulsive shopping or spending
- Food-related issues
- Other behavioral patterns that feel out of control
Whatever your specific experience, healing is possible. Many people have transformed their relationship with addictive substances or behaviors and built fulfilling lives in recovery.
Signs You Might Benefit from Therapy
Consider seeking professional support if you experience these patterns:
Loss of Control
Using substances or engaging in behaviors more frequently or intensely than intended.
Continued Despite Consequences
Maintaining the pattern despite negative effects on health, relationships, work, or other areas of life.
Preoccupation
Spending significant time thinking about, engaging in, or recovering from the behaviour or substance use.
Tolerance
Needing more of the substance or behaviour to achieve the same effect.
Withdrawal Symptoms
Experiencing physical or psychological discomfort when unable to engage in the behaviour or use the substance.
Failed Attempts to Stop
Making repeated unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control the pattern.
Recovery Is Possible
Seeking help for addictions or problematic habits isn't a sign of weakness but a courageous step toward reclaiming your life and wellbeing. Many people successfully overcome these challenges with appropriate support.
What to Expect from Therapy
Your therapy will be tailored to your specific needs and circumstances. Calen Therapy offers different therapeutic approaches for addictions and problematic habits:
- With Helen: Helen's approach includes:
- Psychodynamic therapy to explore underlying patterns and triggers for addictive behaviors
- Cognitive Behavioral techniques to address thought patterns and develop coping strategies
- Specialized training in sex addiction (2017 diploma)
- With Carl: Solution-Focused Hypnotherapy, which can be particularly effective for habits and patterns by:
- Identifying goals for change and building on your existing strengths and resources
- Using relaxation and focused attention to access subconscious patterns
- Creating new neural pathways for healthier responses
Your therapy experience will be personalized but may include:
- Assessment of your specific patterns and their impact on your life
- Exploration of the functions these behaviors serve and healthier alternatives
- Development of personalized strategies to interrupt unwanted patterns
- Building motivation and confidence for change
- Learning relaxation and stress management techniques
- Addressing any underlying issues fueling the addictive pattern
- Creating a sustainable plan for maintaining positive changes
The goal isn't just to stop problematic behaviors but to help you build a fulfilling life that supports your wellbeing. Therapy provides tools and insights to make lasting change possible.
Your Path to Freedom
While everyone's recovery journey is unique, therapy can help you achieve meaningful improvements:
In the Short Term
- ✓Better understanding of your addictive patterns and triggers
- ✓Development of initial coping strategies and tools
- ✓Reduced shame and increased hope for change
- ✓Early successes in modifying behaviors
In the Long Term
- ✓Sustainable change in your relationship with addictive substances or behaviors
- ✓Improved physical and mental wellbeing
- ✓Healthier relationships and social connections
- ✓Greater sense of control and freedom in your life
Recovery isn't just about stopping problematic behaviors—it's about creating a life that supports your wellbeing and fulfills your deeper needs. With professional guidance and your commitment to change, you can break free from unwanted patterns and build a more satisfying future.
Ready to Break Free?
Take the first step toward freedom from unwanted habits and addictions. Carl provides supportive, solution-focused therapy to help you create positive, lasting change.