Once a person becomes dependent upon a substance or behavior, their ability to override the instinctive urges becomes greatly diminished. As chemical reactions and addictive substances alter the literal functioning of the brain, an addicted person’s ability to override impulses becomes greatly reduced. The instinctive responses in the brain are powerful. In an addict, the addictive substance and other chemical changes in the brain make it increasingly difficult for the individual to override impulses. The continued exposure to addictive substances and behaviors become life-support to the addicted brain, even though the individual may desperately want to stop, their brains have “re-wired” and become dependent upon the substance or behavior. Just like a physical injury, the addicted brain needs to be nurtured and exercised to become well again. Stopping the use of the substance / behavior is only the first step to recovery. Our program is specifically designed to help each individual identify impulse-control and underlying causes that contribute to the patient’s need to self-medicate, and their inability to override impulses and urges. Many individuals have secondary problems that contribute to their addiction, like depression, anxiety, trauma, or other mental health problems. Just like you can’t force an injured leg to become well just by wishing it, you can’t force a chemically dependent brain to become well by wishing it. However, with sobriety, consistent training and support, the individual’s brain can become strong and healthy again. Proper diet, exercise, and consistent and loving support can help your loved one heal. We encourage families to participate as much as possible in the treatment and recovery process, so they can learn the symptoms, triggers, and other dynamics of addiction, and how to be a great support for years to come.