Oldschool: The 3 R’s: Back to Basics

Today we’re going to take a minuet to talk about some of the classic theories behind addiction. These may be mainstream ideologies that we do not ascribe to any longer, but it’s important that we understand the foundation this has laid. Addiction is a complex disease that affects us on a physical, mental, and emotional health level. It is a condition that can result in significant negative consequences, not only for the me, who is experiencing addiction but also for those who are close to us.

The three R's of addiction: resentments, relief, and relapse prevention. Resentments are a common factor that drives addiction. When we are in our addiction, we often can become resentful towards ourselves or others because of various issues, including past traumas, mental health problems, and relationship difficulties. The feelings of resentment can result in increased stress levels, which, in turn, can exacerbate the negative impacts of addiction in our lives. In addiction, we can also become resentful towards others who we feel are responsible for our addiction.

Relief is another crucial aspect of addiction. Drugs and alcohol can provide temporary relief by numbing emotional and physical pain. This relief can become a significant factor in driving the addiction cycle. The feeling of relief is short-lived, and once the effects of the substance wear off, we are left with more significant challenges to face, often leading to more severe addiction. These challenges do not disappear; they must be addressed and healed. 

Relapse prevention is the third R of addiction that is crucial to understand and act upon. Addiction is a chronic disease, which means that there may still be a risk of relapse, no matter your time in recovery. It may serve you to have a relapse prevention plan to avoid returning to substance abuse. Relapse prevention plans typically involve various coping strategies, including finding support, professional counseling and avoiding anything that triggers the urge to pick up.

In conclusion, resentments, relief, and relapse prevention are crucial aspects of addiction. To address and overcome addiction, we must understand the causes of our addiction, generate coping strategies to relieve our pain, and take strong measures to prevent relapse. It’s important that we understand our disease in order to elevate above it.

These are the mainstream beliefs in handling addiction….in my next post I want to delve into some alternative approaches to this topic.  What do you find helps you?

If these methods have not worked for you, you are not alone! Next, we'll talk about some alternative ways to work your recovery.