Addiction is a neurological problem, and each of us has a genetic predisposition to become addicted. In simple terms, addictiveness is in our brains and can be activated anytime. In animals, addiction is an evolutionary aspect; an animal eats food that it enjoys, and the brain tells it to find that food again.

Yet not all addictions are out of our control. Research has proven that around 50% of addictions are caused by an inability to cope with traumatic or unpleasant occurrences—death, grief, stress, and the emotional baggage that remains from childhood traumas.

In such cases, your reaction may be to drink, smoke, to take drugs. Each of these actions effectively blocks out the problem. Poor coping skills are not unusual and are not to be ashamed of. Few of us are taught about coping – or, indeed, about life in general – so a sudden shock to the system will have a dire effect.

Excessive drinking, for example, will effectively ‘rewire’ your brain. It will instill encouragement to seek that buzz you get from alcohol. This is where Addictions Therapy at IHTherapy can help.

Therapists use a method known as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT.) This talking therapy involves getting to the root of the problem. It’s a successful method and one that we are experts in the practice of. If you want help with addiction, we’re here, so please get in touch.