Apathy and Addictions

Addictions say: “I’m just fine.”  “Things are fine.”  “This is okay.” “I don’t want to change.”

In order to get from A to Z  we must work very hard toward a healthy goal.  We must continue working on improving our lives, tweaking this or that throughout the journey.  What happens if we don’t?  That is what I will address in this article on apathy and addictions.

When we stop caring, our lives stop working.  We are stuck.  When we stop caring we begin to see no reason to change.  We lack passion for anything and develop a “whatever” attitude. That is when we become dependent on the wrong choices:  no exercise, poor and sloppy food choices, drugs, alcohol, etc. Any of these lead to despair.  When we stay stuck we freeze our development.  It keeps us from growing, learning, challenging ourselves, or trying new things.

Addictions whisper in our ear, “You are fine the way you are.”  “That seems too hard to do and it may not be worth it.”  We settle back into doing the same old thing, and the rut and routine become life defeating.

Addiction is the ultimate rejection of reality.  “There won’t be any consequences if I keep eating this way or drinking this way.”  “I won’t get cancer if I keep smoking.”

The truth is everyone around you pays a very high price for your complacency.  Medical bills, trips to the drug store, the doctor’s office, the emergency room, not to mention the harder work others have to do to make up for your coasting along, devoting all of your time, money and energy into the addiction.

Change does require hard work, discipline, and structure.  I would recommend you work with someone who has achieved those desirable healthy goals and continues working on maintaining their optimal health.  Allow them to structure a working plan that you agree to.  Remove all temptation from your environment.  I’m always baffled why my diabetic clients keep cupboards and drawers full of high sugar and white flour snacks.  Learn how to plan ahead for that evening at a party or a camping weekend.  Believe it or not, the process of self-care, structure and discipline bring peace and an inner calm.

Commit to at least one other person other than your mentor/counselor what exactly your plan is.  Then share with them how you are doing.  Are you able to keep your commitments?

Don’t live a life of “Ground Hog Day,” the movie with Bill Murry who is doomed to live the same day over and over again until he gets it right.  This is your life.  Commit to change; commit to health.  Commit to healing the core issues behind addiction.  The rewards are worth it!

God bless your journey!

Doc