If you’re struggling with substance abuse or other addictive behaviors, it’s important to know that help is available. Healing from addiction is possible. The therapists and counselors at Thriveworks in Seattle, WA have helped countless clients find the treatment they need, and they look forward to doing the same for you.
When you’re ready to restore balance and control to your life, reach out to our licensed mental health professionals to get started.
Common Signs of Addiction
When we say that addiction changes the brain, what does that mean? In short, addiction can cause the brain to flood with pleasure hormones so that you feel substantial reward (more than normal) for engaging in the addiction while your natural self-control mechanisms are bypassed.
Addiction can look different from person to person. However, people struggling with addiction tend to exhibit some of the following symptoms.
Physical signs of addiction:
- Weight loss
- Hyperactivity or lethargy
- Red eyes or dilated pupils
- Repetitive speech
- Excessive sniffing while not ill
- Looking undernourished or pale
- Body odor that is unpleasant or different
Behavioral signs of addiction:
- Experiencing difficulties in school
- Isolating oneself
- Missed work/school/personal engagements
- Keeping secrets
- Relationship problems
- Lying to loved ones (especially to cover the addiction)
- Financial problems (particularly, needing money)
Emotional signs of addiction:
- Defensiveness
- Being unable to handle stress
- Irritability
- Loss of interest in people/activities that were once valued
- Lack of awareness about the problem (denial, rationalizations, minimizations, blame, diversions)
- Obnoxious, silly, easily confused
Risk Factors for Addiction
Millions of people in the United States alone suffer from addiction. While addiction can afflict anyone at any time, certain people are more vulnerable to addiction’s grip than others. Family and genetic history of addiction play a big role in its development, for example, as do environmental circumstances.
When looking back to when addictions first develop, people often recall an element of peer pressure. The behavior in question may begin as a way to relax with friends, fit in with a social group, or gain acceptance from colleagues. Emotional trauma or abuse can also play a role, causing people to explore certain behaviors in order to numb the pain and find relief.
Start Addiction Treatment in Seattle, WA
If you are struggling with addiction, you don’t have to go it alone. The first step in recovering is reaching out for support. When you are ready to begin therapy, Thriveworks in Seattle, WA is ready to help.
We offer in-person and online appointments seven days a week. In fact, when you contact our office, you may even be able to meet with a therapist or counselor the same week. We also offer evening and weekend sessions. Plus, we accept many different forms of health insurance.
Call Thriveworks in Seattle, WA today to schedule your first appointment. We look forward to helping you live the life you want to live.
Coping Skills, Self Esteem, Stress, Women’s Issues, Addiction, +4 more 
