Addiction transference is a condition in which a person addicted to one particular drug gets addicted to another while recovering from the previous drug. It is also called cross-addiction and it is a much more serious problem than being addicted to one drug.
The reasons for this multiple addiction condition are many. Sometimes, people tend to shift to another drug without the knowledge of addiction to it. Sometimes, they find the other drug to give them the same euphoric high as their previous drug. Whatever the reason may be, this condition is not good for one’s health and they should get treated immediately.
Most Recovering Addicts Fall in This Pitfall
Addiction transference is more prominent among people who are on their way toward recovery. It usually happens during the relapse phase, where they tend to get back to their drug habits, out of compulsion.
One example is when a person recovering from cocaine addiction starts to abuse alcohol instead. This, they do so out of compulsion. It was also found that people with active substance use disorders were twice as likely to develop another substance use, compared to individuals whose substance use disorder was in the remission phase.
Addiction Transference Causes Serious Trouble
Some patients also tend to believe that the new addiction could help them get rid of the old one. But it seldom does so. The new drug and its accompanying effects tend to overlap with the old condition and make it worse for them.
It is not only limited to drugs too. Sometimes people tend to get addicted to pleasure-inducing activities such as eating, sex, gambling, and even shopping, while in their recovery phase. This, not only causes serious trouble to the person, mentally but can take a toll on them physically too.
Take a Conscious Decision to Stay Away from All Addictions
If you or your loved one shows symptoms of addiction transference during the recovery phase, it is necessary that you take some concrete steps toward it.
The first thing to do is to take a conscious decision to stay away from all possible addictions from now on. With enough willpower, you can overcome the urge to give in to the new drugs. Another way is to consult your physician or psychologist. They will provide you with counseling to help you gain more control of your mind.
Join Individual or Group Treatments
Individual treatments for addiction transference like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy can help a lot too. In this, you can explore your thought patterns and feelings that contribute to substance use and compulsive behaviors. You will also learn to control every aspect of your life and stay sober with sheer willpower.
Group therapy can help too. Attending group sessions with people who are going through similar struggles will help you learn different coping mechanisms. You will learn that you are not alone on this and have a peer group supporting you constantly.
Both these treatments play a unique & important role in your recovery. Depending on your exact needs, you might have to choose individual treatment during early stages of the recovery & group therapy later.
Article source: www.briarwooddetox.com
