Many addicts give up one addiction just to pick up another one. It is a common occurrence referred to as “cross addiction”. For example, a recovering alcoholic may turn to cigarettes or caffeine in order to replace the need for alcohol. There is an explicit neurological process that occurs in the brain when a person exhibits addictive behaviors. When one addiction is relieved through therapy, others may take their place. Many times the new addiction is a substance or act that makes the person feel the same way their previous addiction made them feel. Many times the individual isn’t even aware the new habit, whether it shopping, nicotine, caffeine or sex, is another addiction. Unfortunately, it is still addiction and should be addressed while in rehab.
The neurotransmitters in the patient’s brain become damaged from the drugs or alcohol they were originally addicted to and their bodies begin to rely on the chemical reaction produced by that addictive substance. When their body is unable to recreate that response sufficiently, they turn to a substitute that fills the need. It is important to address the underlying issues as to why the patient has turned to addiction in the first place in order to relieve them of addiction permanently. Holistic drug addiction treatment is a solid foundation to begin recovery with. The purpose of holistic treatment is to find a balance within every aspect of a person’s life. This helps to prevent cross addiction by providing them with insight into their life purpose, relieving their body of the need for any sort of addiction. (photo via)
