Deep in the throes of addiction is one of the hardest places to be; and, many times, when people finally seek help, they have lost their family, job, children, spouse, home and their health. 

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Addictions are complicated and require more the typical candid ‘just stop using’ approach. This can be one of the most frustrating and invalidating things to hear. 

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We understand and we know how that feels. While you may be at a point where you don’t think you can be helped, we know you can recover and live the life you’ve always dreamed.

What is an addiction?  

The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) defines addiction as “...a treatable, chronic medical disease involving complex interactions among brain circuits, genetics, the environment, and an individual’s life experiences. People with addiction use substances or engage in behaviors that become compulsive and often continue despite harmful consequences.”  

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In essence, addiction–also known as substance abuse–is a brain condition that occurs when an individual regularly engages in an activity that turns into compulsive behavior. Often, the person initially repeats use of the substance because they find its effects pleasurable. Eventually, however, this habit comes to interfere with–and can even destroy–one’s work, health and relationships.  

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How big of a problem are substance addictions?

Substance use disorders (SUDs) are a major problem in the US and the world. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 19.7 million American adults (aged 12 and older) battled a SUD in 2017. 

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The number of those struggling has only increased since this study was done, as people are starting to use drugs earlier and earlier in life. According to the CDC in 2018, 67,367 drug overdose deaths occurred in the United States.

Am I broken beyond repair, or is addiction treatable?

Yes! Addiction is treatable. Many people have completely stopped using substances and go on to lead successful lives. 

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While in this moment you may feel alone and hopeless, there is help. You are not broken, not strong enough, weak willed or morally bankrupt. You are a human being with a mental disorder who needs help. With dedication and willingness, you can recover.

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How do I recover if I have a family member who was/is addicted?

Addictions are considered a family disease because of the dysfunctional family systems that develop when one member is addicted. Almost all family members of an addicted person also need treatment. Mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, spouses all need help healing from what has happened and also learning how to live in recovery.   

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How do you treat addictions?  

At Inner Balance Counseling, we know addictions wreak havoc in people's lives and many people struggle to get back to their day to day life after going to treatment or having their loved one go to treatment. 

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We help people learn how to integrate back into day to day life, repair relationships, and cope with a loved one who is struggling with addiction or getting sober. We use a combination of relapse prevention, DBT, CBT and EMDR to help people heal their past and feel confident in their future.