Substance Misuse & Addiction
When someone experiences withdrawal or struggles with addiction, the outside world may see changes in behaviour, isolation, irritability or secrecy. Beneath the surface there may be physical symptoms, cravings, shame, fear, emotional pain and a powerful need for relief.
Explore the iceberg to understand the experiences that may remain hidden. Every person's experience is different.
Substance withdrawal involves physical and psychological changes when someone reduces or stops a substance their body has adapted to. Addiction can also involve emotional distress, habitual responses, social pressures and a complicated relationship with relief and control.
People may experience several feelings at once. What appears to be difficult behaviour may reflect intense distress, although it is still important to recognise personal boundaries and the effects of behaviour on others.
Withdrawal and addiction are not simply matters of willpower. Understanding the underlying experiences can help people respond with greater compassion and more appropriate support.
A supportive environment, professional assessment, appropriate treatment and realistic recovery planning can all make a difference.
Withdrawal from alcohol or benzodiazepines can cause dangerous complications, including seizures. Do not suddenly stop these substances if you may be physically dependent without medical advice. Severe confusion, seizures or serious symptoms require emergency medical help. Call 999 in the UK.
Explore what is happening beneath the surface without judgement. You can add your own feelings, identify what makes recovery difficult and consider what support might help.
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Understanding creates change.
Understanding what sits beneath addiction can be an important part of recovery.
