Addiction Disorders

Understanding Addiction Disorders

Addiction is characterized by compulsive behavior and dependence on substances or activities, despite negative consequences. Substance and Behavioral addictions take control of the brain’s pleasure/reward circuits, creating intense cravings and impairing decision-making, leading to emotional distress and heightened stress responses when not using substances or engaging in addictive behaviors.

Understanding addiction as a chronic brain disorder emphasizes that it’s not solely a matter of willpower or poor decisions but involves significant neurological changes.

Possible Risk Factors

Contributing factors include a family history of addiction; there is ongoing research into specific genetic markers. Co-occurring mental health conditions such as depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorders. Environmental factors include early exposure to substances, stressful life circumstances, trauma, peer influences, and easy access to drugs or alcohol. Biological factors such as neurological differences and personality traits like impulsivity and risk-taking tendencies. Adverse childhood experiences such as trauma and unstable family dynamics, also play a critical role in addiction development across the lifespan.

Potential Impact

Living with an addiction disorder not only affects the individual but also those around them. It often leads to strained relationships with family, friends, and colleagues due to behavioral changes, deceitfulness, and withdrawal from social activities. Financial difficulties may arise from spending substantial amounts of money on substances or activities. Employment and academic performance can suffer due to decreased productivity, absenteeism, or disciplinary issues. Physical health may deteriorate from the effects of substances or neglect of self-care. Additionally, individuals with addiction disorders often experience emotional turmoil, including guilt, shame, and low self-esteem, exacerbated by the cycle of cravings, compulsive behaviors, and unsuccessful attempts to quit.

Our Approach

Medication Management: While we cannot assist you through active detox and severe withdrawal symptoms, we can utilize certain medications to manage chronic, low-level withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, or address co-occurring mental health conditions like depression or anxiety.
Psychotherapy: Engaging in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, or contingency management to modify behaviors, cope with triggers, improve decision-making, and enhance motivation for change.
Specialized Lab Testing: Identifying biological imbalances that contribute to or result from addictive behaviors involves assessing standard blood tests, micronutrient levels, stress markers, and hormone balance.
Lifestyle Coaching: Adopting healthier habits related to diet, exercise, sleep, and stress management to support overall well-being and reduce relapse risk.
Holistic Therapies: Integrating complementary approaches like yoga, mindfulness, acupuncture, or natural supplements to promote relaxation, reduce stress, balance emotions, and ensure proper levels of vitamins/minerals in the body.

Common Addiction Disorders

Substance Use Disorders: Addiction to substances such as alcohol, opioids, cocaine, cannabis, and prescription medications.
Behavioral Addictions: Non-substance addictions involving activities like gambling, gaming, internet use, sex, shopping, and food.

Crisis and Active Addiction Resources

Please understand that we are not capable of providing addiction crisis services. You must call 9-1-1, go to the nearest emergency room, and/or contact the CRISIS INTERVENTIONS SERVICES contacts shown below. PLEASE DO NOT LEAVE URGENT OR EMERGENT REQUESTS ON OUR VOICEMAIL.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's (SAMHSA) National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders.
FindTreatment.gov : The confidential and anonymous resource for persons seeking treatment for mental and substance use disorders in the United States and its territories.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 24-hour, toll-free, confidential support for people in distress. Prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones. Call or text 988.
Veterans Crisis Line: Reach caring, qualified responders with the Department of Veterans Affairs. Many of them are Veterans themselves. Dial 988 then press 1.

Taking the First Step

If you or someone you care about is struggling with an addiction, know that effective treatment is available. Contact us at Four Pathways Mental Health to schedule a complimentary 15-minute consultation. Together, we can discuss your concerns, explore treatment options, and begin a path towards recovery and a fulfilling life.

Reach out today and take the first step towards overcoming addiction disorders or addiction with empathy, expertise, and personalized care. Let us support you in reclaiming your health and well-being.

Schedule a Free Consultation