I treat all compulsive behaviors in a similar way whether they are alcohol, drugs,
food, sex, pornography, or other harmful behaviors that are out of control in our
lives.
These are negative habits. To change, we initially need to examine the
consequences of our behaviors. For example, if we have an alcohol or drug
problem, our behaviors can affect our bodies, connections with those we love, or
our happiness.
We need to ask ourselves if our values coincide with our behaviors. If we value
our family, do we love our family more than we “love” the alcohol or drugs?
Does our use of alcohol and drugs mean more to us than the work we do in the
world? Do we want to be of service? Does our use of alcohol and drugs mean
more to us than our desire to be of service? It’s important that we ask ourselves
these questions and then look at the consequences of our behavior. Cravings
normally pass in about 20 minutes. Can we wait 20 minutes and divert ourselves
to another activity? Receiving support from a therapist, group, family, or friends
and examining the answers to these questions are of great importance to our
recovery. Do we desire freedom from these compulsive habits? Self-understanding will help us change more easily. We can change! We can be free
and lead lives filled with joy and purpose!
If you have read this information, congratulations! You are on your way to
recovery. You have taken the first step toward changing your behaviors.