Disease of the Mind

Substance abuse is a disease of the mind, body, and spirit. It is increasing despite all efforts of community and social media awareness etc. It infiltrates all families; crosses all ethnicities and cultures. No one is spared.  Substance abuse ranges from alcohol to cannabinoids including marijuana, to stimulants, hallucinogens, opiate/opioids, prescription depressants/benzodiazepines, inhalants etc.

Stress is a negative response to some form of stimulus that threatens one’s well being. The stressors trigger the fight/ flight response. Chronic stress can play havoc on adrenal and cortisol functioning that can negatively impact one’s mental, emotional as well as one’s physical health. Stress can contribute to high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and affect the immune system. Stress can cause depression and anxiety.

There is a correlation between stress and addiction and relapse.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), “the nervous system of an addict is hypersensitive to chemically induced stress, which suggests that the nervous system also may be sensitive to emotional stress.  The fact that addicts often relapse apparently in response to what most people would consider mild stressors suggests that addicts may be more sensitive than non-addicts to stress. NIDA also reported; “stress is one of the most powerful triggers for relapse in addicted individuals, even after long periods of abstinence. Stress management must play an integral part in recovery. Exercise, meditation, yoga, a healthy support system, healthy nutrition, supplements, acupuncture, Reiki and other forms of energy healing, psychotherapy, are some of the helpful techniques to manage stress. 12 step recovery meetings, sponsorship, working the 12 steps, being honest how you feel, can help to manage overwhelming emotions and cravings that lead to relapse.

If you are struggling with stress associated with addiction, please feel free to contact me at 561-714-1028 or carlamul@aol.com.