I can’t live without you

“The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be.”

How many times have you caught yourself saying 'I can't live without you'? Oh, the morning coffee just after breakfast or having the last drink on this Saturday because its weekend, so why not or the last smoke because your friend is leaving for abroad, we might not get time again to bond or the last puff because it's so cold and you need a little warmth or even playing one last game because you still haven’t had your final win.

We do see ourselves dealing with our unhealthy habits which release a certain amount of dopamine, a hormone leading to feeling pleasure which, mind you, is temporary and might be released only when you engage in those habits; thus forming addictions. There might have been attempts to understand if those addictions can be curbed that might have led to failures as well; but what matters is that you tried. Here are some tips which might help you better: 

- Pick a time to stop - Choosing a significant date such as a birthday, anniversary, or special occasion may be beneficial.

- Modify your surroundings - Your house and place of employment should be free of any reminders of your addiction. For instance, stay away from those who urge you to engage with the substance, drink, or behavior that is the source of your addiction. Get rid of all alcohol, bottle openers, wine glasses, and corkscrews if you're trying to quit drinking. Remove any playing cards, scratch tickets, or poker chips if you're trying to stop gambling. Don't allow anyone to use or bring reminders of the substance or behavior associated with addiction into your home.

- Get distracted - Create substitute activities, such as going for a walk or contacting a friend or relative to talk, to keep yourself occupied until the need to use passes, as opposed to giving in to it. Be ready to handle situations, such as being around people who use drugs, that cause you to crave certain foods.

- Examine your prior attempts - Consider the things that did and did not work. Take into account potential recurrence causes and make changes as necessary.

- Establish a network of support - Ask your family and friends for their support and encouragement in a conversation. Inform them of your resignation. Ask them not to use your addiction's object in front of you if they do. If you buy drugs, you should think about telling your dealer that you're giving up; request that they stop calling and selling you drugs. Additionally, you might want to think about discussing the best way for you to stop smoking with your healthcare professional. Medication may be able to make the process easier for you and improve your chances of success.

It is absolutely important to consider taking professional help whenever you feel it is required and you notice your addictions disrupting your daily life. It can be worked upon and you can let go of the habits. You can always get better and find healthier alternatives. It is important to recognize that addiction exists and then you can go ahead working on it and improving your lifestyle. It is not a “cool” thing or even something that needs to be romanticized, because if the consumption is not limited, it can lead to further deterioration of life. Help is available, always.

Note - I am myself writing this while sipping my coffee, so understand that addictions are common but it still is unhealthy. I am working on myself too. Hoping this helps you in overcoming your unhealthy habits.