Addiction - The Standing Tall Foundation

As well as substances, there are many addictive behaviours such as gambling, shopping, sex, work, social media and many more.

SO WHAT IS ADDICTION?

In the medical profession, addiction is classed as a chronic disease. A disease is a condition that changes the way an organ functions. Therefore addiction is also known as a chronic brain disorder.

Feelings of low self-esteem/self-worth are often associated with addiction. Ultimately if a person was to find a substance or behaviour that would provide some form of ease and comfort and remove them from their feelings, they tend to take that opportunity however short lived that experience may be. This un-manageability of feelings and/or emotions leads to what is known as the mental obsession. The intensity of these feelings associated with addiction will leave a person feeling so uncomfortable that they will obsess over the use of substances or addictive behaviours to change the way they feel.

The mental obsession becomes so powerful, it becomes easier to succumb to the desire rather than continue to fight it. Once that person has succumbed to the desire, they set off what is known as the phenomenon of craving. This craving is so powerful that it is beyond their mental control, leaving them powerless over their addictive behaviour or substance of choice.

There is also a physical aspect to addiction. This is known as the physical allergy or physical compulsion. The allergy or compulsion is what separates those suffering with addiction and those that do not. The allergy is related to those who use substances. Once a substance is consumed, an abnormal reaction or in addiction terms an allergic reaction will occur leaving them with an inability to stop using. The physical compulsion is related to those who suffer with behavioural issues such as gambling. Ultimately once they start it is almost impossible to moderate.

IS THERE A SOLUTION?

Thankfully yes! The Addiction team at the Standing Tall Foundation are living proof that with hard work and dedication, you can beat your addiction and commence to live a productive, healthy life with purpose and direction. We believe that it is essential to have that level of understanding and lived experience as they are much better placed to help those suffering with addiction.

Through the use of the twelve-step program, we have seen many people recover at a variety of ages. It is never too late to change!