Addiction & Recovery
Thousands of people of all ages and backgrounds, struggle with one or more addictions. Often said words of denial by addicted folks are: “I don’t have a problem. I can stop any time—my drinking, using drugs, overeating, sexual acting out, gambling, depressions, agitations, manias, or other destructive habits.” If you can really do this, you are not an addict. But if you cannot completely stop for 6-12 months, this indicates a serious addiction.
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Overview | Resources | Encouragement | Get Help
Overview
“Addiction” is a term that means compulsive mental, emotional or physical need for and the use of a habit-forming substance (like: food, alcohol, illegal (or illegal) drugs, or nicotine), OR a harmful behavior.
The most common roots of most addictions are chronic stress, a history of trauma, mental illness and a family history of addiction. Understanding how these can lead to chronic substance abuse and addiction will help you reduce your risk of becoming addicted.
Facts about an addiction:
No matter the addiction, all are progressive. Without appropriate intervention an addiction worsens, not weakens over time: more and more of the substance or behavior is needed to get relief and escape. (AA slogan: “One drink is too many; 10,000 is not enough!)
Rare is the person who can escape the clutches of an addiction alone. Usually counseling and support from others are absolutely necessary.
“Head-knowledge” and self-help actions inevitably fail in most cases. The help of others is ALWAYS needed. Breaking free is almost impossible alone, with no outside help. Divine help and the support of safe, lay people or mental/medical health professionals is a critical necessity.
An addiction CAN be overcome so that a person CAN live a happy, productive life. BUT the addiction’s “roots” will ALWAYS make that addict vulnerable to slipping or relapse. Therefore, it is imperative to use all the spiritual, emotional, mental, and social weapons/tools to strengthen against times of temptation.
The signs and symptoms vary from one addiction type to another, but some common symptoms of addiction to a substance, behavior, or activity include:
An inability to stop.
Changes in mood, appetite, and sleep.
Continuing despite negative consequences.
Denial.
Engaging in risky behaviors.
Feeling preoccupied with the substance or behavior.
Helpful Articles
Recommended Reading
While the internet has an abundance of books and websites on specific addictive problems, the single most helpful book is the Alcoholics Anonymous “The Big Book.” This is the granddaddy book for anyone who struggles with any kind of addictive substance, behavior, or activity. This includes alcohol, drugs, pornography and sexual Issues, eating Issues, gambling, workaholism, and others.
Useful Websites
NAMI Faithnet — Nationally-based and provides spiritual programs and resources for all kinds of faith communities. Provides resources (books, articles, programs, videos, etc.) for individuals and faith communities. Offers practical help for anxiety, addiction, mental illnesses suicide, support groups, stigma, and related topics.
Mental Health Ministries (a program of Pathways to Promise) — A national, spiritually-based organization that provides resources (books, articles, programs, videos, etc.) for individuals and faith communities. Founder and coordinator is Rev. Susan Gregg-Shroeder, a nationally-known speaker on mental illness themes.
Alcohol and Drug Issues
Make a Difference: Talk to Your Child About Alcohol
Sexual Issues
Sexaholics Addicts Anonymous (SAA)
Kingdom Works Studios — A biblical approach to sex addiction
Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous (SLAA)
Sexual Compulsives Anonymous (SCA)
Sexual Recovery Anonymous (SRA)
Eating Issues
National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA.org)
Work Issues
Gambling Issues
Encouragement
Don’t worry, there’s hope! The Bible is filled with examples heroes who were angry, hurt, depressed, skeptical, doubtful of God, and/or suicidal. Check out these statements of hope.
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
—Jeremiah 29:11When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.
—Isaiah 43:2
How to Get help
If you are in an emergency, click the emergency hotline button below. If you are looking for long-term help, numerous mental health professionals, clergy, organizations, and support groups offer comfort and guidance on boundary-related problems.
When you’ve been injured, it’s hard to stop the mental “instant replays” of your disappointment, resentment, betrayal, or other upsetting incident from your mind.