What Addiction Feels Like: You Might Be Surprised
What Addiction Feels Like: You Might Be Surprised
Someone who doesn’t use drugs or alcohol regularly may have difficulty understanding what addiction feels like. Most people have the misconception that addicts are dangerous, scary people who lack self-discipline. In truth, many addicted persons are high achieving professionals or family-oriented moms or dads who rely on drugs to get them through their stressful days.
When we think about addiction, many of us tend to see it as a choice. We also believe the person could quit if they had enough willpower.
What Addiction Feels Like on a Daily Basis
You probably know someone who is struggling with addiction. Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be addicted to something? Can you imagine what it’s like to have little or no control over the situation? Would you be uncomfortable knowing everyone was judging you or avoiding you because of the addiction?
Being addicted is a daily battle that can never be won unless professional treatment is sought. But, even after completing rehab, these individuals are still shunned or mistrusted by society. They feel as if everyone is watching and waiting for them to relapse, and it’s probably true. The stigma follows them regardless of their successful sobriety.
It’s More than Just a Craving
Addiction is more than just a craving. The drugs are powerful and produce intense withdrawal symptoms during abstinence. The discomfort forces a person to seek more of the drug simply to feel normal again. With this in mind, maybe we can come to realize the suffering these individuals endure.
Having No Control of Your Mind and Body
Depending on the substance of choice, an addicted individual can experience a range of side effects that they can’t control. Things like cravings, irritability, diarrhea, vomiting, sweating, anxiety, jitters, agitation, pain, headaches, and more can keep a person seeking the drug again and again.
Many of these individuals continue the behavior until it ruins everything they hold dear in their lives. For instance, ruined relationships, damaged careers, and all prospects for a prosperous future are some examples of what addiction feels like. The drug controls every aspect of a person’s life.
Maintaining Sobriety is a Daily Challenge
After rehab, a person must learn to avoid or manage triggers that are lurking everywhere. Each day, they face a new obstacle or temptation that can weaken their resolve. Staying in recovery is a life-long process that is difficult for even the strongest person.
Of course, sobriety is not easy for someone who used drugs or alcohol for prolonged periods. It feels natural to reach for a pill or a strong drink to escape from the stress. If he or she succumbs to the temptation, they feel like a failure and may become depressed. Using addictive substances is a classic method for dealing with those feelings.
Hopefully, these examples will help you feel more respect and compassion for someone who is struggling with addiction or trying to stay in recovery.
Getting Help to Overcome Addiction
If you understand a little more about what addiction feels like, take it to the next level. Talk to your addicted friend or loved one about getting professional treatment. Or, contact a professional interventionist and arrange an intervention for the individual. Remember, a person who is addicted won’t normally seek help on their own. They feel trapped, hopeless, and helpless to do anything about the situation. So, give them a helping hand.
Finding the right treatment program for your friend or loved one is as easy as a phone call. At A Forever Recovery, our representatives are available 24/7 to answer your questions and recommend a treatment plan that is right for you or your loved one. So, call now to get started on your sober future.
- aspe.hhs.gov – Blending Perspectives and Building Common Ground. Impact of Substances Abuse on the Individual, Family, and Community
