If you don’t wish to change your life…
I knew that you would surely read this. Because when we are told not to do something, we prefer to do that. Right? The same thing happens with addiction. Societal norms don’t allow you to become addicted but your interest lies in engaging into certain behavior because you think it is the best way to cope up with the stress. When you engage in certain behavior for a long time, your brain releases dopamine. When that engagement becomes pleasure, that’s where compulsion begins. Did you know? Addiction kills one Indian every 96 Minutes. But hey! Don’t blame yourself as an addict. It’s just your inability to stop using a substance or engaging in a behavior even though it is causing psychological and physical harm.
If your answer to 5 out of 7 questions is YES! Then you might be addicted. But don’t you worry.
Did you know? Celebrities like Angelina Jolie, Rober Downey Jr., Eminem, Daniel Radcliffe, Honey Singh, Ranbir Kapoor were addicted to drugs. When
they have beaten addiction, Why can’t you?
May it be a behavioral addiction or a chemical addiction, as you are reading this, you definitely want to control your addiction towards certain thing.
You have the ability to change anything you desire. You are just one decision away from a healthy lifestyle.
If you are on a journey and you constantly face hurdles which are hindering you from reaching your destination, the journey would be so demotivating. Right? Same goes with your de-addiction journey. The people who encourage you to engage in a certain addictive behavior, are your biggest hurdles. Overcome them first. Distance yourself from drug abusers and find a good company of friends who acts as constant energy boosters of your healthy habits.
You become what you spend most of your time in. As you’re addicted to something, you’ve taken deep interest in it. Instead, take interest in creative side of yours. Try new ventures, engage in Art to feel good, listen to motivational songs, develop a talent & don’t forget to pat your back after you complete the task.
Sometimes, we like motivation to continue. We start self -doubting if we don’t complete what we’ve planned. It leads to frustration. To avoid this, find a partner who will not only witness your journey but also give reinforcement when you complete the task or positive punishment when you don’t. Feel grateful for having someone to answer to.
It is said that if you continue to do a certain thing consistently for 21 days, you do it for lifetime. Plan your day, have a good food and nutrition, be one with nature, sleep early, watch sunrise and sunset, exercise, keep a record of your journey towards quitting addiction. You have tried being addicted for more than 21 days, now healthy habits should be given a chance too.
Mind can see what the world can’t. Stand in front of the mirror and tell yourself that “yes! I am going to do it”. Meditate for at least 10 minutes a day, mindfully think on how and why did you indulge in certain addictive behavior. Acknowledge that you are in a process of change so that past decisions won’t affect you anymore.
When you were a small kid, you used to fall and stand up again. So why not now? You are in a process of transforming yourself, you might fail. Accept your failures & work on where you are lacking. Address that it’s okay to not be perfect all the time.
After a month or two, if you are still not able to overcome addiction, find & visit the best de-addiction center in India which will help you to overcome addiction professionally. And yes! Veda Rehabilitation & Wellness can surely help you to conquer this.
These tips and tricks will surely help you to beat your addiction. Finally, I would just like to say, Addiction is not always harmful. Some addictions enhance your life. Get addicted to Self-Care, Love, Gratitude for a better life.
All the best!
By,
Kalpesh Kulkarni
Psychologist & Centre admin Head
Veda Rehabilitation & Wellness
