Anyone suffering from an addiction has asked themselves the same question at one point: “Why can’t I just STOP?”
An entire part of the conscious can be screaming out to oneself to simply quit the unwanted behavior, but time continues to pass, and the behaviors persist.
To add to this, feelings of shame or resentment often emerge when professional help has failed, exacerbating the issue. An individual will invest and go through rehab or psychiatric treatments, only to have the addiction remain, and withdrawal suffering continue.
The reality is, addiction simply is not a choice that we consciously make. So consciously choosing to stop, using simply sheer willpower, is often out of the question.
Why Addiction Is Not a Choice You Make
Contrary to popular belief, addiction is not a choice made by individuals.
While people may make the initial choice to use drugs, the development of addiction is often beyond their control due to the way substance abuse impacts the brain and alters normal thought processes.
One never expects to become addicted, and in a society where so many of our recreational behaviors or personal vices can lead to addiction, it also does not indicate any sort of moral judgment on the person suffering – and it certainly does not fit into a stereotypical image of an addict.
Porn, alcohol, gambling, prescription drugs, illicit drugs, sex, gaming – these are all elements that span the entire gamut of society, covering any socioeconomic class.
Many consume or partake in these habits or substances, and thus, almost anyone can
The exact moment this happens is unique to each person, as it’s not based on any one factor, but a combination of factors and how they relate to the person’s day-to-day.
In short, a habit becomes an addiction when it interferes with a person’s daily life and they are unable to stop despite negative consequences that have become evident.
Addiction involves compulsive behavior, intense cravings, and withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit. These deep desires stem subconsciously, and are the most difficult factors standing in the way of moving forward.
People who have gone through addiction recovery programs will attest to this fact. They never intended to end up in rehab, but instead, fell into a pattern of compulsive behavior motivated by erroneous thinking. When the brain’s reward system is hijacked by the chemicals in psychoactive substances, the normal train of thought becomes derailed, leading to relapse even during addiction recovery.
Treatment for Addiction
Given that addiction is a neuro-chemical problem and a behavioral condition, it requires specific treatment. And since it so specifically affects the subconscious, treatments that help stimulate this part of the psyche can be so powerful.
For this reason, ibogaine therapy has become the subject of such attention over the years. Especially in its ability to reduce withdrawal symptoms and prevent relapse, it what appears to be a natural way.
Administered by the right practitioner, it does this by creating a neuro-stimulus effect. It is believed to stimulate the subconscious by causing vivid and introspective self-awareness, which can provide insights into one’s unconscious thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
Emerging from this state, an individual is overwhelmed with having a light shone on previously dark areas in their psyche. Along with this emotional revelation, ibogaine can interrupt addiction by resetting the brain’s neurotransmitter systems, which can help people overcome cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with substance use disorders.
These two reaction, both the subconscious emotional one, and the resetting of the body’s own defenses is what makes a treatment that incorporates ibogaine so powerful.
Conclusion
Addiction has far-reaching physical and mental health impacts and is a serious, complex issue that requires help from one’s network, and from professionals, even when all hope appears to be lost. It is quite simply, not within the realm of behaviors one can simply change ‘cold turkey’, but every individual is different, and the right help from a professional can indeed make that difference needed to overcome it
If you or someone you know is struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, seek help from an addiction specialist or trusted individual to explore treatment options, among which, the possibility of an ibogaine experience.
Although ibogaine therapy is not yet approved for clinical use in the U.S., (progress is being made however, such as in Colorado) Mexico is a common destination for Americans seeking treatment at Ibogaine Clinics.
After thousands of lives being changed for the better at our facility, we can confidently say: ff you or someone you love is struggling with drug addiction, it’s important to know that recovery is indeed possible.
We are blessed to see this truth reflected every day in the people we work with.
It’s a difficult journey that can be overwhelming, but with the right support and resources, you can overcome the challenges and find a better life. Ibogaine therapy is one such resource.
Remember that addiction is not a sign of weakness, but a chronic illness that requires professional treatment. You are not alone in this, and help is available.
Take the first step towards recovery today and reach out to a trusted professional, support group, or loved one. Your strength and resilience will guide you towards a brighter future. And never forget, hope is never lost and healing is always within reach.