Addiction counselling in Brighton

Addiction is a complicated problem unique to each individual. There is nothing simple about addiction.

Families dealing with an addicted person will often feel powerless when trying to help. Addiction can have a devastating effect on families and personal relationships.

It’s important to remember that people living with addiction cannot be ‘sent’ for counselling. They need to want help and support themselves. An important factor in the effectiveness of therapy for addiction depends on the individual’s determination and desire for change.

What causes addiction?

The causes of addiction are complex. Addictions are usually the result of many factors. Sometimes the causes of addictive behaviour are clear and easily understood while for some people the underlying cause is never fully known or realised.

Addiction is widespread throughout most communities in the world. Addiction occurs at all levels of society. However, there is a great deal of misunderstanding about addiction and society can be very judgemental towards those affected by addiction.

Addiction is often seen as a weakness when, instead, addiction is a serious mental health problem. At its worst, addiction can be life-threatening.

Addictions can be about almost anything

While there are very common and well-known addictions in society, just about anything can become addictive for some people. Common addictions include addictions to alcohol, drugs, prescription medication, gambling, sex, pornography and the internet.

Less well-known addictions include addictions to shopping, spending money, food, exercise, text messaging, tattoos, working, pain, stealing and caffeine.

Those who have not experienced addiction in their own lives often struggle to understand the complex forces that contribute to addictive behaviour.

Can addiction counselling in Brighton help?

Addiction counselling can help identify whether a person has an addiction and can explore the underlying causes of addictive behaviour. In therapy, an experienced therapist can help the client recognise the emotional and behavioural patterns that contribute to the addiction.

Personal therapy provides support for those people trying to stop uncontrolled, addictive behaviours through the confidential, private relationship that forms between the client and the therapist.

Addiction is a problem that can have serious consequences.

Find out more about the benefits of counselling. To learn more or to book a first appointment, please get in touch.