“It is impossible to understand addiction without asking what relief the addict finds, or hopes to find, in the drug or the addictive behaviour”
— Gabor Mate
Simplified Meaning:
When someone is addicted to something, it's important to understand why they keep using it. It’s not just about the drug or behavior itself, but about what they feel they get from it. For example, someone might start drinking alcohol because it helps them forget their problems, or a person might gamble because it gives them a thrill that makes them feel alive. Without knowing what they are searching for or what comfort they are seeking, it’s hard to really help them. Just telling them to stop won't work; we need to understand the deeper reasons behind their addiction. By finding out what they are trying to escape from or what feeling they are trying to capture, we can better support them in finding healthier ways to cope.
Related tags
Addiction Behavior Dependency Hope Mental health Psychology Relief Substance abuse Understanding
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