The first part of this series addressed the Good things about quitting an addiction. Part two of this four-part series addresses the GOOD reasons for NOT quitting an addiction (as perceived by the addict); the third part will address the BAD things about quitting an addiction; and the final part will address ways for the addict to see themselves living a more authentic life through personal change. The personal costs to an addict can be huge depending upon the severity, intensity, and longevity of an individuals addiction. This four-part series will incorporate the physical, social, mental, and spiritual/emotional implications in each sector. Good Things about NOT Quitting an Addiction: The Physical challenges about quitting, put as good things about NOT quitting an addiction, have some very distinct implications of how quitting affects the body. Some addicts rationalize some of these aspects as being damn good reasons for NOT quitting. For most addicts, their substance of choice brings a certain relaxation, relief, and release from physical tension. Addicts have been known to report that substance use helps them sleep better or chronic pain is often relieved by the use of alcohol or other drugs. The taste factor is often a huge one, But I love the taste of alcohol! It drives me crazy if I can smell it and cant have a taste of it! There is also a belief that substance use makes cigarettes taste better (not recognizing the co-habitual use as being a possible trigger for the use of both substances); some believe food taste is enhanced through the use of alcohol and other drugs. The feeling of getting high is a big one for most addicts. And substance use stops the morning shakes or it stops the trembling and hallucinations of Dts. The belief that sex is much more intense, gratifying, is often a huge reason for continuing to use certain substances (i.e., cocaine). The Mental implications for NOT quitting are rationalized in various ways. There is a belief that it helps the addict to worry less, Nothing bothers me when Im loaded or high! It relieves boredom and alleviates the individual from obsessing about his/her problems. Alcohol and other drugs have often been used in an addictive manner to relieve stress. I feel a better sense of control over my life. It helps me cope with the stress I have at work all day; its a way for me to relax and feel normal! In fact, its the one thing I look forward to all day. And many addicts feel more creative when feeling high. I believe if Edgar Allan Poe were alive today, he would agree with that one. The Social ties people have with others make it another good reason (challenge) NOT to quit. Couples in intimate relationships often share similar addictions, which is often the one thing that keeps their implied friendship/relationship together. Plus the use of substances can make an addict feel a greater intensity of being part of a social crowd, and have more connections in having fun at parties or other celebrations (i.e., weddings, anniversaries, tailgate parties, etc.). Substance use is simply part of a lifestyle where other friends are doing the same thing. The implication for the use in social settings, in some way, normalizes the behavior. It helps when socializing with business associates; it alleviates shyness; it provides a way to ritualize gatherings at the local sports bar or other venues. Spiritual/Emotional implications are different for everyone when considering NOT quitting an addiction. I do not define ones spirituality the same as belonging to a particular faith/religion; although, ones faith can be a stabilizing force in living a spiritual life. Our spiritual side is the energy that moves within us to be who we are meant to be in context of our connection to a higher power (something many addicts have a great deal of trouble wrapping their belief system around). Our spiritual nature is the purpose side of living; it is the context in which one feels, learns, and experiences life in relation to the self as he/she lives out a purpose driven life. Emotionally, substance use takes the edge off. Given our societys competitive nature, for some addicts, they believe it allows them to face life with a little more courage; it comforts them if they should fail in a win-lose situation; it puts some individuals in a sentimental mood, while its an avenue for others to express their anger. As stated above, it can appear to relieve depression (taking off the edge); it can drown out obsessive feelings of guilt and shame (only to return on another day); it can give the allusion of being and feeling more loving. Substance use can make one feel very powerful and confident when in a state of being high. |
