Gary W. Smith, C.C.D.C.
Articles by this Author
The Life Cycle and Mechanics of Addiction - Part V
- By Gary W. Smith, C.C.D.C.
- Published 07/20/2008
- Drugs and Addiction
- Unrated
There are different methods utilized in substance abuse counseling to bring about positive moral change in an addict. Probably one of the most commonly used is the Twelve Step approach practiced by the Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous groups.
The Life Cycle and Mechanics of Addiction - Part IV
- By Gary W. Smith, C.C.D.C.
- Published 07/20/2008
- Drugs and Addiction
- Unrated
The third and final barrier to recovery from addiction is guilt. Guilt acts as another strap in the harness that keeps the addict trapped in his addiction.
The Life Cycle and Mechanics of Addiction - Part III
- By Gary W. Smith, C.C.D.C.
- Published 07/20/2008
- Drugs and Addiction
- Unrated
Depression is another factor that keeps an addict harnessed in his addiction. Depression is the source of a constant and significant amount of discomfort that prompts continued use. It is also the second major barrier to successful recovery for those seeking help through treatment.
The Life Cycle and Mechanics of Addiction - Part II
- By Gary W. Smith, C.C.D.C.
- Published 07/20/2008
- Drugs and Addiction
- Unrated
The first challenge for any addict wishing to kick his addiction is overcoming the mental and physical cravings for drugs or alcohol. Cravings are strong, uncontrollable urges to use drugs or alcohol that drive the addict to once again use addictive substances.
To get an idea of what drug cravings are like, think of a time when you went for a long time without eating a meal and you were really hungry. Hunger is a mental and physical sensation that is triggered when the body needs food for nutrients and energy.
To get an idea of what drug cravings are like, think of a time when you went for a long time without eating a meal and you were really hungry. Hunger is a mental and physical sensation that is triggered when the body needs food for nutrients and energy.
The Life Cycle and Mechanics of Addiction - Part I
- By Gary W. Smith, C.C.D.C.
- Published 07/20/2008
- Drugs and Addiction
- Unrated
Whether a person is genetically or bio-chemically predisposed to addiction or alcoholism is a controversy that has been debated for years within the scientific, medical and chemical dependency communities. One school of thought advocates the "disease concept," which embraces the notion that addiction is an inherited disease, and that the individual is permanently ill at a genetic level, even for those experiencing long periods of sobriety.