As a counsellor I cannot cure you of your addictions, whether it be alcohol dependence, drug abuse, gambling, smoking, internet gambling etc……. What I can offer you is a safe place for you to examine various avenues that might shed light on why you find yourself in this situation. There are certain genetic, cultural and social influences that merge with chemical and emotional factors. Environmental influences and personal experiences can also contribute.

Escaping from current reality is a pretty common thread that runs through addictive behaviours. Engaging in some form or other of delusional, even grandiose activity creates a quick high or sense of false freedom, which in turn becomes chaotic, destructive behaviour. In this environment it becomes increasingly difficult to maintain honest relationships and the addictive personality craves the space and freedom to indulge in their addictive behaviour without interference or criticism from families etc…

Acknowledgement can be a long and arduous process that can be very painful and involves facing a certain amount of guilt. In order to be forgiven one needs to forgive oneself. Detox programmes, medication for depression (not encouraged) and abstaining using the twelve steps programmes are structured and essential for recovery and forever afterwards. Counselling helps unravel why it all started in the first place. Understanding yourself is key to helping beat your addictions. You don’t need to fight your demon alone.