One Simple Tip For Overcoming Addiction

One Simple Tip

Who Me, An Addict?

Addiction is a complex, multifactorial disease and thus, there is no one simple 'tip' that will overcome it. However, even the most complex of problems cannot be solved without first recognizing that a problem exists. And herein lies the baffling nature of addiction that has been a block to effective treatment for countless over the years. This is the fact that denial is a hallmark symptom of the disease. One of the main symptoms, as an expression of the problem requiring help, is, in fact, a block to getting help. In other words, alcoholism and other forms of addiction are unique amongst all other forms of what we refer to as diseases, in that they have, as one of their primary symptoms, the belief that you don't have a problem. A therapeutic 'catch 22'.

Denial of the Addiction

The acronym of 'Denial', Don't Even kNow I am Lying, is descriptive of this therapeutic dilemma. Ironically, the individual's mistaken belief that they don't have a problem serves as both an indication for, and a block to, effective treatment.

The more an individual experiences negative consequences, yet continues on a path of self destruction, and the more they need help, the more they believe they are OK and don't need help. Denial can be overcome.

Get Honest

My 'number one tip' that can 'overcome' addiction, that serves as a gateway to effective help, is to 'get honest'.

To surrender attempts to control over this overwhelming and increasing loss of control, to admit that life is becoming unmanageable, and to let someone or something help. There are many ways that this can happen, whether through some form of external intervention, or through a moment of cognitive clarity, an emotional or physical experience of a 'bottom', or a spiritual experience of crying out for help.

Regardless of the circumstances, the common element that allows for the beginning of the healing process is 'getting honest'. With self, usually first, and others.

Surrender To Win

Having 'surrendered' to the problem, acknowledging that the self has a dilemma that, despite best efforts or intentions, continues to get worse, creates an opening, a beginning, to allowing help to enter and the beginning of a healing process available through a variety of now well developed therapeutic and holistic healing modalities. It is a paradox, but we learn to surrender to win!

‍If you think you might have a problem with alcohol, drugs, or other addictions, if you are 'sick and tired of being sick and tired', reach out for help today. Contact Serenity Vista for professional help in assessing your situation and begin your exciting journey of recovery now!

John Derry, B.Sc.Phm., M.A.Founding Director, Serenity Vista John Derry is a Canadian healthcare professional who has dedicated his life to helping people affected by addiction. He is currently founding Director of Serenity Vista, an international private alcohol, drug and other addiction treatment center located in tropical Panama in Central America.

Serenity Vista provides a comprehensive, holistic approach to treating the whole person, attracting guests from Canada, the United States, the UK, and across the globe. The natural beauty of the setting and the relatively affordable costs provide an attractive alternative to large, increasingly expensive, institutional treatment centers of North America and Europe.