When Habits Hurt: Understanding and Overcoming Addiction

When Habits Hurt: Understanding and Overcoming Addiction

By: Mayank Korpal, MBBS

Addiction doesn’t always begin with a dramatic event. Sometimes, it starts quietly, a drink after work, a few pills after surgery, a bit of marijuana with friends, or small bets during a sports game. These habits may feel harmless at first, but over time, they can slowly take over, affecting health, relationships, finances, and peace of mind.

Addiction is not a weakness or a moral failing. It is a condition where certain behaviors or substances become hard to control despite negative consequences. Whether it’s alcohol, smoking, pain medication, marijuana, or gambling, recognizing the signs early and taking action can make all the difference.

From Habits to Harm: Knowing the Line

Addiction often starts as a way to cope with stress, pain, boredom, or loneliness. What begins as a routine or social activity can become a daily need. Some common red flags are:

• Needing more of a substance or behavior to feel the same effect
• Feeling anxious or irritable when unable to use it
• Struggling to stop even when wanting to
• Neglecting work, relationships, or personal responsibilities
• Hiding use or lying about it

These signs don’t mean someone is weak, they mean someone is struggling and may need support.

Stories Behind the Struggle

A person who drinks every evening “just to relax” may eventually need alcohol just to fall asleep or even as an eye opener in the morning. A patient prescribed pain medication after a surgery may continue using it long after healing, simply because they feel “off” without it. A student might start using marijuana to unwind, only to find it affecting their mood, motivation, and grades. A smoker may try to quit repeatedly but return to the habit under stress. A gambler may begin with small bets and eventually find themselves chasing losses, borrowing money, and hiding their actions from loved ones.

Each of these situations reflects a common pattern: something that once offered comfort now causes harm.

Breaking the Cycle: Where the Help Begins

The good news is that help is available and recovery is always possible.

For those struggling with alcohol, drugs, or gambling, the first step is often simply acknowledging that there’s a problem. From there, reaching out to a healthcare provider, counselor, or support group can open the door to treatment options such as:

• Therapy and counseling to build healthier coping skills
• Medications that ease withdrawal and reduce cravings (Nicotine patches for smoking addiction, pills etc.)
• Structured plans for behavior change and relapse prevention
• Support groups like alcoholics anonymous (AA) for shared experiences and encouragement

Recovery is rarely a straight line. It may take time and multiple attempts but every effort counts. Even setbacks are part of the process, not the end of it.

Addicted to a Good Life

The goal isn’t just to stop harmful habits, it is to build a life so fulfilling that there’s no room for them. It might mean finding new ways to relax, reconnecting with family, rediscovering hobbies, or prioritizing mental and physical well-being.

Rather than being addicted to substances or behaviors that bring harm, we should strive to be addicted to leading a good life, one that’s grounded in health, purpose, and balance. That shift in mindset can be the strongest foundation for lasting change.

One Call, One Step, One Change

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, remember: support is always within reach. One simple step—like talking to your doctor or calling a helpline—can start the journey to recovery.

Need help? Call the National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
It’s free, confidential, and available 24/7.

A better life is possible—and it begins with one small step in the right direction.

References

• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Substance Use Disorders
• National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). Understanding Drug Use and Addiction
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Addiction and Substance Use
• National Council on Problem Gambling. Understanding Gambling Addiction
• National Cancer Institute – SmokeFree.gov. How to Handle Withdrawal Symptoms and Triggers