Do i need Addiction counselling?
In the not-so-distant past, addiction was often looked down upon as a moral issue – especially in pop culture – and people dealing with it were generally shamed. This made it hard to discuss openly, and even harder to get accurate answers about how treatments worked and whether counselling could help. But times have changed. Now, it’s not just acceptable to seek counselling for addiction – it’s encouraged. This shift has been incredible for those who recognize an important truth: admitting we need that help is the crucial first step toward regaining control, healing, and leading a more fulfilling life.
At Your Counselling, we fully embrace this perspective, offering a caring environment with comprehensive therapy options to treat this complex mental condition. Our goal is to foster a supportive space where you can start a journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and recovery. We invite you to join us on this path towards healing, freedom, and a future full of hope and purpose. Your journey to a healthier and more satisfying life begins here with addiction counselling, Calgary!
13 common Signs of addiction
Are you, or is someone you love, addicted to a substance or behaviour? Here are some of the most common signs of addiction:
- Increased tolerance: needing more of the substance or behaviour over time to achieve the same effect.
- Withdrawal symptoms: experiencing physical or emotional distress when not using or engaging in the behaviour.
- Loss of control: an inability to cut down or control the frequency of substance use or addictive behaviour, despite efforts to.
- Neglecting responsibilities: failing to fulfill work, school, or home obligations.
- Continuing despite bad effects: continuing its bad impact on physical health, relationships, or other life aspects.
- Isolation and social withdrawal: withdrawing from other social activities in favour of the addiction.
- Mood swings: experiencing significant mood swings, irritability, or emotional instability.
- Secrecy and deception: engaging in secretive or deceptive behaviour to hide the extent of the addiction from others.
- Loss of interest: diminished interest in activities that were once enjoyable or fulfilling.
- Failed attempts to quit: unsuccessful attempts to stop or control the addictive behaviour on one’s own.
- Financial or legal impacts: experiencing financial difficulties or legal problems due to the substance or activity.
- Physical health decline: a deterioration in physical health as a result of the addiction.
- Denial: minimizing or denying the severity of the addiction despite evidence to the contrary.
If someone exhibits several of these signs, it may indicate the need for professional counselling or some type of intervention.
gambling, food, and drug addictions
there are many different types of Addictions
Psychologists and other medical professionals have shown that addiction does not have to be pharmacological in nature. It can take many different forms and cover many different activities or substances. While being addicted to alcohol and tobacco is common, other addictive behaviours may include:
- gambling
- eating (or, conversely, not eating)
- video games
- hoarding
- illicit drugs
- self-harming acts
- sexual activities
- social media or internet activities
Each of these requires a unique approach from an addictions counsellor in order to ensure a high probability of successful rehabilitation. Admitting that the addiction exists is just the first step towards a healthier and more balanced future, and recognizing what addiction looks like is an important part of that.
addiction counselling services in calgary
While the scope may vary widely, addictions are among the most common mental illnesses. Sometimes they arise spontaneously through repeated pleasure responses – such as with video games or food – but they may also be a coping mechanism that helps with past trauma. Many veterans, emergency workers, and people in formerly high-stress positions struggle with addiction throughout their lives.
If you or someone you love is dealing with addictive behaviours, there are treatments that can help overcome those feelings and break the cycle once and for all. Addictions counsellors are specially trained and can guide you forward with professional advice, coping exercises, and other therapies to assist in the process.
At Your Counselling, we practice supportive psychotherapy, utilizing many techniques and approaches to help you recognize, understand, and overcome problematic behaviours and sources of distress. This environment of direct, non-judgmental attention helps clients deal with emotions that surround various addictions, building self-esteem and confidence. We also use accelerated resolution therapy (ART), a relaxing and innovative physical-mental combination that helps to “rewire” the brain’s interpretation of negative situations. This method can achieve rapid results and long-lasting benefits for not only addictive behaviours, but many other issues as well.
Find out more about our addiction help for veterans, gambling, food, drugs, or other related addictions services and get started toward a happier life today.
Why get Addiction counselling?
What are the benefits of counselling for addictions like alcohol and tobacco, instead of simply trying to quit or using pharmaceutical aids? There are some key advantages that you’ll only get in guided therapy sessions:
- You’ll have professional support.
Counselling provides access to specialized therapists who offer personalized guidance, helping you navigate the complex nature of addiction. - Your recovery will be more comprehensive and holistic.
Counselling addresses the root causes of addiction, develops coping strategies, and promotes behavioral modification, contributing to a holistic approach to recovery. - You’ll build emotional well-being and gain tools to improve relationships.
Counselling offers emotional support, helps rebuild self-esteem, improves relationships, and provides tools for relapse prevention, fostering a positive and supportive environment. - You will learn more about addiction and how to remain accountable.
Addiction therapy educates you about your addictive tendencies, empowering you with the knowledge to create a sense of accountability. This motivates an ongoing commitment to recovery and positive change.
Meet Our Experts
Why Work with Us
1-on-1 Counselling
Take the first step towards transforming your life today!
Couples Counselling
Repair the damage an addiction has done and strengthen your relationship!
Online Counselling
Providing confidential and accessible online counselling, from the comfort of your home!
Our Areas of Counselling & Therapy Expertise
If you find yourself experiencing emotional pain, sleepless nights, depression, and worry, or feel your goals are slipping away from you – our counselling services in Calgary can help you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: what is the best way to support a family member with addiction?
By learning about their substance abuse and addiction, taking care of your own mental health and well-being, and integrating family counselling and therapy. We go further in depth on this topic in our blog post about supporting family members with addictions.
Q: what types of addiction do you provide counselling services for?
Our addiction counselling services in Calgary cover a wide range of substance and behavioural addictions. We offer support and guidance for alcohol, drug, gambling, internet, and other addictive behaviours. Whether you’re struggling with a specific substance or a combination of issues, our experienced counsellors can help you on your path to recovery.
Q: How do I know if addiction counselling in Calgary is right for me or my loved one?
Choosing addiction counselling is a personal decision, but it can be the right choice if you or a loved one are experiencing difficulties related to substance or behavioural addictions. If you’ve noticed a pattern of substance abuse, negative impacts on your daily life, or strained relationships due to addiction, seeking counselling at our clinic in Calgary can be a proactive step towards recovery and a healthier future. Our compassionate team is here to support individuals and families in their journey to overcome addiction.
Q: Do you have weekend or evening appointments?
Yes! We believe in counselling that works with all schedules, so we offer appointments on the weekends and evenings.
IT’s time to take control of your addictions
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