Wellness Positive

Decisive steps to break an Addiction, and get rid of a drug, drink or tobacco habit..

FOR THOSE WHO WANT TO 'KICK THE HABIT'

  When you're fighting an addiction or substance-abuse habit, much depends on the nature of your drug, but much also depends on the kind of person you are, and how seriously you want to be rid of your addiction. Remember, if a drug has been an important part of your life, or if it has (for example) been an emotional crutch to you, or part of your regular social scene, it can take time to be rid of it.

  When you decide to get rid of an addiction, you need to be willing to go all the way right at the start.

  You may have to change certain aspects of your life, alter your social scene - maybe even take up a hobby. Whatever it takes, if you're willing to do it, if you're willing to put all your strength and will behind it, then it's VERY PROBABLE that you'll be able to remove your addiction from your life.

THREE STEPS TO BREAKING AN ADDICTION:

1) Tell your friends about your decision, and ask for their help:

  So maybe your friends have the same addiction - tell them about your decision all the same. Tell them you want, really want, to be rid of your habit, and that you need their help.

  If they're into the same thing, don't criticize them, but let them know you need them to stand by you as you fight to be rid of your own addiction. Most important of all, if you let the people around you know of your decision, they'll be less likely to 'tempt' you - they'll be less likely to offer you the very thing you're trying to be rid of - and that can be a big help in itself.

2) Examine your social life:

  Take a good look at your social life - are there times (say when you're at the pub) when your very habits and lifestyle encourage your addiction? If this is so, make a genuine effort to change that lifestyle.

  Basically, a habit is far, far easier to kick if you put yourself out of reach of temptation. If you smoke on your coffee break, then change that - find something interesting to do in that time instead. If it's the pub that's tempting you, take up some sport. You don't have to become a recluse or anything - quite the contrary. But change your social scene so that the usual temptations DO NOT arise.

3) Fill up your time:

  Don't just sit in front of the television - chop wood, talk with your neighbors, walk in the park, take up a hobby that fascinates you.

  The last is probably the best - a good hobby that totally absorbs your thoughts and attention and skills will help you tremendously towards beating your addiction.