The addiction cycle may be initiated by curiosity or social pressure, serving as risk factors for the first substance use, marking the start of the cycle.
Typically, this initial moment creates a pleasurable experience, known as the Peak Experience, where satisfaction is absolute. As it is a completely new sensation, the desire to relive it emerges. After experiencing it, a drastic change in mood follows, accompanied by anxiety, boredom, stress, or sadness.
Phases of the addiction cycle.
First Use:
- Introduction to the substance, experiencing the Peak Experience.
Regular Use:
- Consumption becomes habitual, forming a pattern.
- The pursuit of the initial sensation creates a habit, and as the intensity of pleasure diminishes, mood swings are experienced.
- Tolerance syndrome appears, with the body adapting to the substance, preventing the same effect as the Peak Experience. Slowly crossing the line of personal well-being.
Risk Use:
- Consumption starts to negatively interfere with daily life.
- Substance use or engaging in activities alters the course of life; interpersonal relationships are affected, as well as performance in school, college, or work.
Dependency:
- Intense physical or psychological desire to consume.
- Crossing the line of personal well-being triggers withdrawal symptoms.
- The substance is needed to reach a sense of well-being. The mechanism involves increasing the dose or frequency, seeking to replicate the initial experience.
Disorder:
- Inability to quit the substance or stop the activity.
- Abandoning well-being, consumption becomes a necessity, leading to a loss of self.
- At this point, the individual doesn’t care what is consumed or the living conditions; the sole goal is to recreate the Peak Experience.
At Equilibrium, we combine various therapeutic techniques with individual and group sessions in a serene and pleasant environment that leads to recovery.
Our professionals have years of experience in treating dependencies and mental health rehabilitation.
If you identify with any of these phases and feel stuck in the cycle, have tried everything without success, or want to help a friend or family member…
