Illusions of an Addict

"Illusions of an Addict"

By: Victoria L. Ansley

January 1, 2009

Sigmund Freud once wrote, "Illusions commend themselves to us because they save us pain and allow us to enjoy pleasure instead. We must therefore accept it without complaint when they sometimes collide with a bit of reality against which they are dashed to pieces." One could analyze this quote in regards to drug and alcohol addiction. Drugs and alcohol create a momentary escape from virtually any life problem, and it if was easy to tell someone to roll with the punches, substance abuse would be at the bottom of the world's societal concerns. Substance abuse often stems from a plethora of situations that lead to personal discontent; therefore, one's addiction carries its own individuality. Treatment for persons suffering from addiction requires a deeply personal and explorative approach. Addicts often form their own reality based on past and present life events; these realities are often distorted. The perception of an addict's reality should not be judged or criticized; it is his or her own reality based on life experience. Individuals typically do not seek out a life marred by substance abuse; therefore, it is crucial to understand the exact situation(s) which led to the abuse to allow for a better understanding of why he or she has an addiction.

Life is a rollercoaster, filled with both moments of unhappiness and happiness. It is a fact that each of us will experience suffering in a greater or lesser degree than others. It is in this suffering that we discover our personal strength; however, many seek the temporary sense of strength that drugs and alcohol provide. Many difficult situations and perspectives lead to addiction such as: divorce, marital issues, financial difficulties, death of a loved one, illness, stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, caring for a loved one who is ill or elderly, stressful work environment, unresolved childhood issues, abuse, and behavioral problems with one's children. The list of problems that people have faced or are facing is numerous and never-ending. Life difficulties can often cause individuals to develop illusory perspectives toward their particular situation.

For example, a person may have a drink in the evening to relax the tension created by a stressful work environment. The alcohol will produce a calming feeling, a sense of relaxation and peace. The individual may begin to drink more heavily as a result of these effects, and eventually the casual drinker will turn into someone who has become dependent upon the alcohol. This dependence may lead to alcoholism. His or her romantic and platonic relationships may begin to diminish; he or she may become unemployed; financial difficulties may develop; and he or she may begin to experience symptoms of depression. An alcoholic will rationalize his or her behavior by possibly saying, "I work long hours, and the workload is excessive. I'm just having a drink to take the edge off." Addicts will often rationalize their behavior by attempting to justify their behavior. These rationalizations often turn into a life built on illusory thinking. Many addicts sincerely believe they are healthy and functioning individuals.

The initiation of reality is a complication one will face if he or she chooses to live a life based on illusory thinking. Many people who abuse drugs and/or alcohol are reluctant to say, "I'm an addict." This is mainly due in part to the idea that he or she is being given a label. They see the word "addict" and fear the rejection and judgment they may experience from others. It is also difficult to see one's self as an addict, because of the negative stereotypes surrounding the word. People do not typically judge individuals who suffer from major depressive disorder, or make comments such as, "Why can they not have a more positive outlook?" The majority of society comprehends that a depressive disorder is a disease, and that it requires medical attention; therefore there should be no shame associated with having an addiction to drugs or alcohol, it is also a disease. These individuals had or are having life experiences that created emotional pain. The clash between illusion and reality often occurs when an addict begins to lose control of each part of his or her life. The excuses for using drugs and alcohol are no longer believed by family members; distance may develop and a lack of trust. His or her employer may begin to notice diminished work performance, which may lead to unemployment. His or her children no longer receive the emotional support, which is critical to ensure healthy emotional development. Financial difficulties create hardship; there is little to no money for necessities. An addict's life will essentially fall to pieces, and one can not resort to complete despair. The illusion and reality have dashed, and life is broken, yet the ability to regain one's life can be achieved through an acceptance of reality. The road to sobriety is long and arduous, yet it can be achieved. The illusions created by those who suffer from addition will not last forever; reality will undoubtedly surface, and acceptance is a part of the passage to sobriety.