Substance Use Disorders

How can we tell the difference between using alcohol or drugs recreationally and when we may have an addiction or dependence?

Substance misuse is a term used to describe the act of misusing substances in a manner that is harmful to your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It can lead to addiction, which is a chronic and relapsing disease that has negative consequences in various areas of life, such as relationships, work, and health.

Counseling can be a powerful and effective way to address substance misuse or addiction. It provides a safe and supportive environment where individuals, couples or families can explore the causes of misuse, develop healthy coping skills and create a personalized plan for recovery. Through counseling, individuals and families can gain insight into the reasons behind misuse and learn new strategies that will support everyone's emotional wellbeing. It is a safe and confidential space where individuals and their loved ones can receive support and genuine guidance on the journey to recovery.

What Are Some Common Challenges Experienced With Substance Abuse?

Depression & Anxiety

Addiction/substance abuse and depression and anxiety are often interconnected. People with depression and anxiety may turn to drugs or alcohol as a way cope with their symptoms, which can lead to addiction. On the other hand, substance abuse can also cause or worsen depression and anxiety. It's important to address both issues simultaneously in order to achieve long-term recovery.

Relationship Issues

Addiction and substance abuse can have a significant impact on relationships. It can lead to trust issues, communication breakdowns, and emotional distance. Substance abuse can also cause financial strain and legal problems, which can further strain relationships. We can end up isolated from friends and family. Seeking help and support is crucial for both the individual struggling with addiction and their loved ones.

Self-Esteem

We may start using drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with negative emotions or to feel more confident in social situations. but that can quickly spiral out of control! This can ultimately lead to further damage to self-esteem, creating a vicious cycle. Substance abuse tends to negatively impact our our evaluation of self. We feel helpless, out of control, and may have a hard time connecting with others.

Trauma

Trauma is one of the many reasons we may develop a difficult and unhealthy relationship with drugs and alcohol. Substances (in the short term) can offer temporary relief from feeling uncomfortable in our own skin. However, continued use and abuse can ultimately create new problems on top of the chronic problems we've been masking. Substance abuse may even be traumatic in and of itself!

What Puts Me At Risk of Addiction?

There are several factors that can contribute to the development of addiction. One of the most significant factors is genetics. Individuals with a family history of addiction may be more prone to developing an addiction themselves. Genes aren't "destiny", but they can definitely increase our risk of developing a substance use disorder down the road.

How Can Therapy Help?

Identify Triggers

Triggers can be anything from certain people or situations to emotions or thoughts. By working with a therapist, individuals can learn to recognize their triggers and develop coping strategies to avoid or manage them. This can be an important step in achieving and maintaining recovery.

Develop Effective Coping Strategies

These might include practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques, engaging in physical activity, developing healthy habits such as a balanced diet and regular sleep schedule, journaling or creative expression. Your therapist will work with you to find what works for you!

Building a Support System

Learn effective communication skills to establish healthy boundaries and develop stronger relationships with friends and family. Therapy can be instrumental in improving currently relationships, ending toxic relationships, and building new connetions.

Relapse Prevention Skills

Develop strategies and techniques used to help you maintain their recovery & avoid relapse. We identify warning signs and navigate stress in a new way. The goal of relapse prevention is to help individuals achieve long-term recovery and improve their overall quality of life.

How Can We Help?

Our therapists are trained, experienced, and certified in working with substance use disorders. We offer individual therapy, group therapy, and occupational therapy to engage you as a whole-person while you work towards self-regulating.

CONTACT US

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Address

112 S Maple St

Murfreesboro, TN, 37130

Phone

615-212-9141

Email

info@MindTheGapTN.com