Addiction is characterised by a compulsive need for a substance or behaviour despite negative consequences. Addiction is not a simple matter of low willpower or lack of consideration of consequences for actions. It is a multifaceted issue with several contributing factors. Some of the common causes of addiction include:
Genetics can play a significant role in addiction susceptibility. If a person has a family history of addiction, they may be more vulnerable to developing addictive behaviours themselves.
Exposure to a drug-abusing or alcohol-abusing environment, especially during childhood, can increase the risk of addiction. Peer pressure, trauma, and stress are also environmental factors that can contribute to addiction.
Many individuals with addiction also struggle with underlying mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or trauma. These co-occurring disorders can fuel addiction and make recovery more challenging.
Psychologists play a vital role in addiction recovery by addressing the psychological and emotional aspects of addiction. Here are some ways in which psychologists contribute to the recovery process
Psychologists play a critical role in the initial stages of addiction recovery by conducting thorough assessments and diagnoses. This involves an evaluation of an individual’s mental and emotional health, as well as an exploration of their history, experiences, and triggers related to addiction. The assessment process helps psychologists to identify any co-occurring mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which often accompany addiction. Recognising these co-occurring disorders is essential because they can significantly impact an individual’s addiction and recovery journey. Once a psychologist has a clear understanding of the underlying psychological factors and co-occurring conditions, they can create an individualised treatment plan tailored to the individual’s unique needs. This plan serves as a roadmap for the recovery process, outlining specific goals and interventions.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): CBT helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviours that contribute to addiction. By teaching coping skills and strategies to manage cravings and triggers, CBT promotes long-term recovery (Carroll, 1998).
MI focuses on exploring and resolving ambivalence about change. It helps individuals strengthen their motivation for change and commit to specific goals for recovery (Miller & Rollnick, 2013).
Psychodynamic approaches delve into unconscious processes and unresolved conflicts that may contribute to addictive behaviours. By exploring early life experiences and relational patterns, psychodynamic therapy aims to uncover underlying issues and promote insight and healing (Khantzian, 1985).
MBRP combines mindfulness practices with cognitive-behavioural techniques to help individuals develop awareness of triggers, cravings, and automatic reactions. It fosters acceptance and non-reactivity, reducing the likelihood of relapse (Bowen et al., 2009).
DBT combines elements of cognitive-behavioural therapy with mindfulness practices. It helps individuals regulate their emotions, improve interpersonal relationships, and develop distress tolerance skills—essential for managing the emotional ups and downs of recovery.
EMDR focuses on the idea that negative thoughts and emotions surrounding past traumatic experiences contribute to addiction. By processing these underlying issues and resolving the associated distress, individuals can experience relief and reduce their reliance on substances as a coping mechanism. During EMDR sessions, clients work with their therapist to identify specific target memories related to their addiction. By identifying these memories, EMDR allows for a structured treatment process that helps individuals confront and reprocess the painful emotions associated with them, thereby reducing unhealthy coping responses.
The journey to recovery from addiction is a challenging one, but it is not one that individuals need to face alone. Psychologists play a crucial role in understanding the psychological factors that contribute to addiction and providing the necessary guidance and support for recovery. By addressing the complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors, psychologists play a vital role in supporting addiction recovery efforts. Through evidence-based treatments and compassionate care, psychologists empower individuals to heal from addiction, build resilience, and build a fulfilling life free from substance abuse.
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, seeking support from a skilled psychologist can provide the guidance and resources needed to embark on the path to recovery. Please feel free to get in touch with our team to find out about working with one of our psychologists https://www.transitionworks.com.au/contact-us
References:
⦁ Carroll, K. M. (1998). A cognitive-behavioral approach: Treating cocaine addiction. NIH Pub No. 98-4308.
⦁ Miller, W. R., & Rollnick, S. (2013). Motivational interviewing: Helping people change (3rd ed.). Guilford Press.
⦁ Khantzian, E. J. (1985). The self-medication hypothesis of addictive disorders: Focus on heroin and cocaine dependence. American Journal of Psychiatry, 142(11), 1259-1264.
⦁ Bowen, S., et al. (2009). Relative efficacy of mindfulness-based relapse prevention, standard relapse prevention, and treatment as usual for substance use disorders: A randomized clinical trial. JAMA Psychiatry, 66(7), 674-681.
⦁ Stanton, M. D., & Shadish, W. R. (1997). Outcome, attrition, and family-couples treatment for drug abuse: A meta-analysis and review of the controlled, comparative studies. Psychological Bulletin, 122(2), 170-191.
