Why do people become alcoholics or addicts

Addiction is a complex and challenging condition, and it's something I see frequently in my psychotherapy practice. While the immediate focus initially focuses on the substance itself—be it alcohol, drugs, or a particular behavior—it's crucial to understand that addiction very rarely exists in a vacuum. In almost all cases there are underlying or co-existing conditions that fuel the addiction and make recovery more difficult if left unaddressed.

The Intertwined Struggle: Addiction and Co-occurring Conditions

When someone seeks help for alcoholism/addiction, one of my primary goals is to explore the landscape of their mental and emotional well-being. It's incredibly common to find that conditions such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and even certain personality disorders deeply intertwined with the development and perpetuation of alcohol dependence/addiction.

Depression, and how alcohol or drugs Dull the Pain (Temporarily)

Many individuals turn to alcohol/drugs as a form of self-medication for the pervasive sadness, hopelessness, and lack of motivation that characterize depression. The initial "lift" or numbing effect that they can provide may offer a temporary escape from these feelings. However, alcohol is a depressant itself. Over time, chronic alcohol/some drug use actually worsens depressive symptoms, creating a vicious cycle that is incredibly hard to break. The hangovers, the guilt, the neglected responsibilities—all contribute to a deepening sense of despair, pushing individuals further into their addiction.

Anxiety: Calming the Storm (At a Cost)

Similarly, anxiety frequently holds hands with addiction/alcoholism. The racing thoughts, the physical sensations of panic, the constant worry—these can be overwhelming. Alcohol/drugs can initially appear to quiet the anxious mind, providing a false sense of calm and control. But this relief is fleeting. As the body metabolizes them, a rebound effect occurs, leading to increased anxiety and even panic attacks. This can then lead to drinking/using more to alleviate the heightened anxiety, reinforcing the addictive pattern. Social anxiety, in particular, can drive individuals to drink to navigate social situations, leading to dependence.

Trauma: Numbing the Echoes of the Past

The impact of past trauma on the development of addiction cannot be overstated. Whether it's childhood abuse, a traumatic job (being in the armed forces/emergency services/being a medical professional and lots of other careers), a severe accident, or any other deeply distressing event, trauma can leave lasting psychological wounds. Alcohol/drugs can become a way to numb the painful memories, flashbacks, and emotional dysregulation that often occur. However, this "numbing" prevents true healing and can actually exacerbate the symptoms of trauma in the long run. Processing trauma in a safe, therapeutic environment is essential for genuine recovery from addiction.

Psychiatric conditions, A Broader Spectrum

Beyond depression, anxiety, and trauma, other co-occurring conditions can play a significant role. These might include:

• Bipolar Disorder: The intense mood swings of bipolar disorder can lead individuals to use alcohol to self-regulate, either to calm manic episodes or to lift depressive lows.

• Eating Disorders: There's a notable comorbidity between eating disorders and alcoholism, with individuals sometimes using alcohol to suppress appetite or to cope with body image issues.

• Personality Disorders: Certain personality traits and disorders, such as borderline personality disorder, can contribute to impulsive behaviors and emotional dysregulation, making individuals more vulnerable to substance abuse.

The Holistic Path to Recovery

The message I consistently convey in my practice is this: simply stopping alcohol/drug use is normally not enough. While abstinence/serious reduction in quantity of alcohol/drugs is a critical first step, sustainable recovery necessitates addressing the underlying psychological and emotional distress that often fuels the addiction to achieve happiness and not merely be 'dry' (the term used in the field is someone is a 'dry drunk')

My approach as a psychotherapist involves

Understanding the full picture of an individual's mental health, including any co-occurring conditions.

Initially addressing the 'crocodile nearest the boat', ie the addiction. Beyond our sessions this normally will involve holistic support such as encouraging engagement in support groups (such as AA/SMART recovery groups), fostering healthy lifestyle changes, and building a strong support network.

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction/alcoholism, please understand that help is available. It's a journey, but with the right support that addresses the full spectrum of an individual's well-being, lasting recovery is not just a hope—it's a very real possibility. Reaching out is the first step towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.

I have worked with many individuals to recover, and with my support and their dedication, many have found a new way of life for themselves. I provide the 'paper and the pencil', initially help you sketch out your new life, but ultimately it is you that will create the final picture... 

Be brave and take the first step.