Addictions can be a sensitive topic.  Some of us get caught up in substance abuse; some get addicted to love affairs or work.  There is a common thread.

In addictions we get caught up in a whirlwind of emotion, and feel a loss of control.  We DO have a loss of control.  There is alcohol; there are various drugs.  There is an uncomfortable feeling if we are not working at our desks, or seeking another affair.  Rarely do addictions lead to a happy space.

I have looked into this more, and realized that addictions permeate many parts of our lives that we consider normal.  Think about falling in love.  We cannot shake the thought of the person we love.  We suffer withdrawal when out of contact.

It turns out that brain circuits in each of these cases are similar.  Similar parts of the brain, and similar neural signals are operating.  So, addictions can be "normal".  But they can get us stuck.

Speaking personally I have been stuck with what we can also label as obsessive behavior.  The literature among different domains of "addiction" are beginning to come together.

The serious point, without judgment at all, is that when we get stuck our minds lose their ability to stay on a rational path.  It is as if our minds are "taken over".  We neglect other parts of our lives, such as paying bills, exercise, or eating properly.

Here a coach, especially one who "has been there" can be an enormous help.  When we are caught in addictions, whatever the source, we feel a compulsion to go back to the ruts that are now hurting our wellbeing.

A good coach recognizes these things, and can help you get both feet back on the ground.  Fortunately programs such as ETHOLIFE HEALTH COACHING help the client get at the foundations of addictive behavior, and bring balance back into the client's life.  It is almost impossible to do this alone.

Give coaching a try.  

IT WORKS!

To your wellbeing.

John C. Fentress, PhD