Breaking the family cycle of intergenerational trauma and addiction

Unfortunately, only one in seven people with drug use disorders receive the necessary treatment. The same report estimates that the number of opioid users at 53 million, meaning it increased by 56% from previous estimates. The skewed perception of addiction and addictive behavior is the main factor behind the misunderstanding of this problem and its treatment. In this blog, we’ll dive into the seven phases of addiction, explaining each, and provide some suggestions at the end for how to break the cycle and achieve successful long-term sobriety.

In addition to rapid relief, addicts may also look to escape their problems and avoid addressing the issues firsthand. Unfortunately, addictive solutions are easily accessible and obtain “results” quickly. For some individuals, alcohol is a go-to choice, while others turn to cannabis, cigarettes, or another substance for instant pleasure. Some people are more habit-resistant than others, and some habits are harder to make than others. Healthy habits are just like any other habit, they require investment, effort, and routine. Basically, healthy habits will change your life and are worth whatever effort it takes to build them into a routine.

Ways to Break the Addiction Cycle

Then we need more on repeated use, just to feel a the marginal pleasure boost – and, eventually, just to feel “normal.” If you are struggling with addiction how to break the addiction cycle in California there is help available. Call our addiction hotline to inquire about rehabs in Orange County, CA to learn how to break an addiction.

Addictive behaviors take their toll on your mind and body, so it’s a great idea to pay extra attention to your physical health. Do physical exercises for at least 30 minutes each day or go for a daily run. You can register at your local gym or join an amateur sports league to allow you to interact with other people as you exercise. These changes will work for a while until the brain becomes tolerant to the new dosage, forcing the person to increase the dosage again. At this stage, the individual will progress to heavy substance use, leading to the next stage.

Opioid use disorder in older adults: More common than you might think

By having a support system, you’ll feel more motivated to deal with your addictive behavior than if you’re dealing with it alone. This will further help you stick to your goal of completely avoiding going back into an addiction cycle. Meditation effectively breaks your addiction cycle because it reinforces cognitive behavioral therapy that helps you shake off an addictive behavior.

The urge to relapse is not as strong in this stage, and the individual grows confident in their ability to beat the addiction. A first-time user feels intense pleasure after using the substance or engaging in the activity and wants the experience again. Addictive substances flood the brain with dopamine, a feel-good chemical that rewards and motivates one to repeat the behavior. Continued exposure to the behavior leads to tolerance, where larger amounts of the substance are required for the same effects. Knowing more about the cycle is the first step to begin breaking the cycle of addiction.