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Addiction and dependence
Addiction problems include dependence on
alcohol, tobacco, narcotics, medicaments, gambling
etc. Various addictions have much in common and
often the same person has more than one addiction.
One differentiates between dependence and addiction
due to the consequences it has for the sufferer and
his or her environment. An addiction has an impact
on ones life when the sufferer maltreats his/her
work and/or gets into dangerous situations (i.e.,
fights, drunk driving etc.). The relationship with
family and relatives is usually strained. One of
the most important indicators that one has severe
problems despite whether it is a dependence or an
addiction is that one continues despite negative
consequences. Symptoms on dependence, or a risk
thereof, is an increased tolerance, memory gaps,
easily triggered cravings, loss of control, more
frequent or larger intakes consumed, denial
etc.
The function of alcohol or drugs is to dampen
negative feelings of depression, anger, stress etc.
This can in turn lead to positive feelings of joy
and the like. The addiction can become maintained
on the long-term by very powerful learning
mechanisms that occur irregularly. The development
of addiction can occur in certain situations (for
example social). If the positive effects of the
addiction are associated with such situations, then
these situations can become able to trigger
cravings for alcohol or drugs. People with
addiction problems often have relationship
problems, problems with emotional engagement and/or
difficulties in handling everyday stressful
situations. When a deficient ability to handle
certain feelings or behaviors is actualized in
certain specific situations, this can lead to a low
trust in ones ability to handle the situation. The
person may see a possibility to cope with the
situation by using alcohol or drugs. If the use of
these substances leads to the situation being
experienced as more controllable negative beliefs
may develop. These consist of a belief in that
alcohol or drugs are necessary to use in order to
feel normal, have fun or calm oneself.
© Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) specialist in
Stockholm, 2005-2008, www.kbterapi.se
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