A Step-by-Step Programme for Addiction
Sometimes we know that something needs to change, but knowing where to begin can feel overwhelming. That is why I created this step-by-step addiction programme.
This is not about judging yourself, forcing change overnight or reducing a person to an addiction. It is about slowing the pattern down enough to understand it. Whether the difficulty involves alcohol or drugs, gaming, gambling, shopping, social media or another compulsive behaviour, there is usually something underneath it that deserves attention too.
The programme takes you through 12 practical stages. You will begin by noticing what is happening and understanding what the addiction or behaviour is doing for you. From there, we look at triggers, safety, cravings, creating a pause, changing your environment, finding healthier ways to meet the same needs, bringing supportive people in, planning for difficult days and learning how to respond to a slip without allowing shame to take over.
I have also included a personal recovery-plan page so that you can turn what you have read into something that relates to your own life.
You do not need to complete the whole programme in one sitting. Take one step, reflect on it and come back when you are ready. Sometimes recovery begins with something as small as being able to say, “I can see what is happening now, and I would like things to be different.”
Please remember that some substance dependencies can make suddenly stopping dangerous. If alcohol, benzodiazepines or another substance is involved and you may be physically dependent, please seek medical or specialist advice before making a sudden change.
Use this programme as a supportive starting point — not a test you have to pass.
Maggie
Space to Breathe Therapy
