Why Don’t They Just Stop?
Impediments to Breaking the Grip of Addiction
Bill and Bob, the Wall Street stockbroker and the colorectal surgeon — founders of Alcoholics Anonymous — called alcoholism a “cunning, baffling and powerful” disease.
Before they met each other, they were about to give up on themselves as hopeless drunks destined to die from their drinking.
As an addiction medicine specialist for the last 15 years, as well as a person in recovery for over 21 years, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for their stark characterization of the disease of addiction. I’ve also developed the hope and confidence that most people, who at some point in their lives experience this disease, will get better.
Breaking the cycle of addiction is a complex and challenging process that is often oversimplified by people who don’t fully understand the nature of addiction. Addiction is frequently referred to as “the disease of more” and a “disease of isolation.” There are two main characteristics that make it particularly difficult for individuals to break free from its grip: denial and incessant craving.
Denial is a powerful defense mechanism that allows individuals with addiction to avoid facing the reality of their situation. Many people struggling with addiction are unable or unwilling to admit that they have a problem, even in the face of overwhelming evidence. This denial can be fueled by shame, fear, or a lack of understanding about the nature of addiction. Society’s tendency to stigmatize and shame individuals with addiction only serves to reinforce this denial, making it even harder for people to seek help.
The incessant craving that accompanies addiction is another major impediment to breaking the cycle.
The brain chemistry of someone with an addiction has been altered by repeated substance use, leading to intense cravings that can be almost impossible to resist. These cravings can override rational thought and lead individuals to continue using substances despite knowing the negative physical, mental, and social consequences.
Society’s failure to recognize addiction as a disease further complicates the process of breaking free from addiction. Instead of viewing addiction as a medical condition that requires treatment and support, many people see it as a moral failing or a lack of willpower. This attitude can prevent individuals with addiction from seeking help and can make them feel even more isolated and hopeless.
It is difficult to predict why, how, or when an individual with addiction will reach a point where they are ready to accept help. Each person’s journey to recovery is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. However, reconnection through various forms of help — such as inpatient or outpatient addiction treatment, therapy, support groups and medication-assisted treatment — can provide the groundwork for prolonged sobriety and recovery.
Through these forms of support, individuals with addiction can begin to address the underlying issues that may have contributed to their addiction, such as trauma, mental health disorders, or a lack of coping skills. They can also build a strong support network of people who understand what they are going through and can offer encouragement and guidance along the way.
Breaking the cycle of addiction is a challenging process, but it is possible with the right support and resources. By recognizing addiction as a disease, offering compassion and understanding to those struggling with it, and providing access to evidence-based treatment options, we can help more individuals break free from the grip of addiction and reclaim their lives.
