Addict Attack
Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms
By Donna P. Mitchell
 We can all probably recall
a moment in time when a colleague, friend, significant
other or family member reflected a behavior we just didn't
understand. We also may have tried to look deep into our
own souls for answers about ourselves. Are our behaviors
indicative of casual or recreational use of an activity
or substance? Or, have we crossed into the modern day
shackles and hand cuffs of abuse?
Taber's Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary
defines addiction "as a compulsive and maladaptive dependence on
a substance (e.g., alcohol, cocaine, opiates, or tobacco) or a
behavior (e.g. gambling). The dependence typically produces
adverse psychological, physical, economic, social, or legal
ramifications". Alcohol, drugs, and smoking are substance
addictions since they involve chemicals. Gambling is one of many
behavioral addictions.
The spiritual, emotional and overall
personal growth and development stagnates when there is an
underlying addiction. Relationships are significantly impacted
when a person is unable to control a craving or need for a substance
or particular behavior. Usually there is a closer relationship to
the substance or addictive activity instead of positive interaction
and development of a personal relationship. The primary relationship
is with the addiction. As the addiction becomes the first love, other
relationships deteriorate.
Functional addicts will continue to
exhibit the behavior necessary as if everything is normal for a
period of time and then submerge themselves in the depths of
their addiction. Throughout this time period the addict will be
uncaring, neglect their own health, abandon family and love ones,
increase debt, avoid paying bills, and ask for money. Future
ramifications and negative consequences will not matter. Sometimes
because of feeling guilty or shameful the addict will conceal
the use or activity.
For some the coping skills learned
earlier in life don't positively manage the stress, fears and
years of emotional scarring. Addicts tend to use a substance,
or behavior with negative implications as a way to numb feelings,
handle anxiety or depression. The state of mind is focused on
the euphoric effects. Keep in mind the planning stages (e.g. going
to a casino, where and when is the next high) may start the euphoric process.
Frequency and pattern will increase
as tolerance levels increase because the euphoria is harder and
harder to achieve. Overall patterns of behavior will include the
addiction in most of their activities. As time goes by, any free
time or social gatherings will include the addiction whenever possible.
Remember God and the devil never
occupies the same space. Your body, mind and spirit are to be
in the likeness of God. Have you or anyone you know, or love,
had or having an Addict Attack?
Inner Peace and Healing,
Donna
Donna is an inspirational and business development speaker.
Areas include psycho-social issues, sales, marketing and
customer service. She is currently a primary care
pharmaceutical sales representative. Contact Donna at
Donna4RealityChk@aol.com
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