THE SECRET

TALES OF ADDICTION(Preparing to Change)

Once you are clear on your goal, you may still need to prepare to change. Preparations include removing addictive substances from your home, as well as eliminating triggers in your life that may make you more likely to use those substances again.

People addicted to s*x might need to dispose of porn and clear porn websites from their online history and favorites.

Overeaters might need to go through their food cupboards and get rid of stockpiles of candy and cookies.

Shopaholics and problem gamblers might need to cut up their credit cards and arrange with their bank to have just enough cash to cover bills and living expenses.

Perhaps the hardest preparations to make concern social relationships, which often revolve around addictive behaviors for people with addictions. Heavy drinkers often find joining a self-help group, such as AA, helpful for having a group of buddies who understand what they are going through.

Suddenly quitting an addictive behavior can be lonely, especially if you have lost touch with people who don't indulge in the same behaviors.

Take time to contact friends and family who will support you in your goals without being judgmental if times become hard and you slip up. You might also want to let those friends you drink, use drugs, or engage in addictive behaviors with know that you are planning to change.

They may not understand—or you may be pleasantly surprised. Either way, it's a good idea to let them know of your goal and what they can do to support it (even if that means taking a break from the friendship for a time).

For alcohol and drug addictions, it is a good idea to talk to your doctor or local drug clinic about whether you need medical help in quitting. There are options for medications to help alleviate withdrawal symptoms.

If you have an underlying mental health problem, such as anxiety or depression, it could find worsen during the withdrawal phase. Typically, doctors and drug clinics are very supportive and helpful.