Chemical and Behavioral Addiction Overview Part 1 | Addiction Counselor Exam Review
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The content segments discuss various aspects of addiction, including its definition, criteria, causes, impacts, and recovery process. Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes defines behavioral addictions as using substances, people, relationships, or activities to escape emotional or physical distress, despite negative consequences. The ASAM characterizes addiction through the ABCDEs: inability to consistently abstain, impaired behavioral control, craving, diminished recognition of problems, and dysfunctional emotional response.
Addictions can start at any age, often influenced by adverse childhood experiences and trauma. Addictive behaviors may begin with recreational or prescribed substance use, and individuals may turn to addiction as a way to self-medicate mental health issues. Addiction is not simply a choice but a survival mechanism to cope with overwhelming distress.
The content emphasizes the importance of recognizing that individuals engaging in addictive behaviors are in pain and distress, and their struggles should not be minimized. Addiction can lead to a range of emotional, cognitive, environmental, and relationship problems, perpetuating the cycle of addiction.
The Jelenic Curve illustrates the progression of addiction from recreational use to increased craving and triggers. Eventually, individuals may reach their "bottom," where the pain of their addiction becomes unbearable, leading to a decision to change. Recovery involves understanding the underlying causes of addiction, addressing distress, developing healthy coping skills, improving self-esteem, and rebuilding a support network.
Overall, addiction serves as a coping mechanism for distress and can have significant physical, emotional, cognitive, environmental, and relationship consequences.
The content segments discuss various aspects of addiction, including its definition, criteria, cause