Loss of control can be defined as the failure to limit oneself from the use of a narcotic substance. Often used to describe a significant symptom experienced by individuals grappling with substance abuse.
Loss of control refers to the inability to moderate or manage one’s substance use. When you lose control, you’re unable to stop or limit your consumption, despite negative consequences that may arise. This lack of restraint can be deeply distressing and can exacerbate health, financial and personal problems.
This perceived loss of control is a central aspect of addiction, yet it’s important to note that this control is not always completely absent. Through detailed discussions with those experiencing addiction, it becomes clear that limits exist within their behaviors; for example, certain heroin users may choose to endure withdrawal symptoms rather than steal from their family or some drinkers will avoid alcohol if they need to drive. These examples illustrate that even in the grip of addiction, some level of control or choice can still be exercised, challenging the notion that control is entirely lost and highlighting the complexities in understanding and addressing addictive behaviors.
Whether addiction represents a total loss of control or merely a diminished capacity to resist cravings. This distinction is crucial as it has profound implications for treatment approaches.
For those who view their addiction as a complete loss of control, recovery may seem only possible through external interventions, such as medical treatment or spiritual help, suggesting that efforts to self-regulate behaviour might be futile. Conversely, understanding addiction as a decrease in the ability to control cravings opens up a different perspective on treatment, emphasising the potential for individuals to regain control over their actions with the appropriate support and intervention, moving away from the notion of being utterly powerless over their addiction.
For some individuals, addiction manifests as an intense struggle to resist cravings rather than a complete loss of control.
This perspective suggests that with the right strategies and possibly professional help, people can learn to manage these cravings and regain a degree of self-control. Exploring healthier avenues for pleasure becomes a critical part of this recovery process, indicating that even in the throes of addiction, there is hope for individuals to find balance and control over their desires. This approach shifts the focus from feeling powerless against addiction to actively seeking methods and support to overcome the overpowering urge for substance-induced pleasure.
The distinction between total loss of control and impaired ability to resist cravings is crucial in the context of addiction recovery. The concept of “reduced control” posits that with sufficiently immediate and dire consequences, anyone has the capacity to control their actions. The hypothetical “gun-to-the-head test” serves as an extreme illustration of this idea, suggesting that when faced with a life-threatening consequence, an individual would likely resist the urge to give in to addiction-related cravings. While such an experiment is ethically unthinkable, it metaphorically points to the potential for self-control when the stakes are high enough, challenging the notion that addiction completely strips individuals of their ability to choose and emphasising the power of motivation in overcoming addiction.
Powerlessness
Admitting powerlessness is a foundational yet contentious step in the 12-Step recovery process, representing a shift towards acknowledging the profound control that addiction to drugs and alcohol has over one’s life.
Powerlessness encompasses a complex range of feelings and circumstances where individuals perceive themselves as lacking the ability to influence outcomes or control aspects of their lives, leading to feelings of being out of control and incapable of managing life’s challenges. This sense of powerlessness can arise from personal struggles such as compulsions and addictions, societal issues like violence, disease or discrimination or even from systemic oppression based on race, class and gender. The concept is not only about the absence of power but also concerns the lack of perceived competence, strength or authority to effect change, either in one’s own behaviour or in broader societal issues. Individuals facing powerlessness may find it difficult to express their feelings or take action for fear of losing what little they have, further entrenching the feeling of helplessness and the inability to improve their situation or challenge injustices.
The dynamics of powerlessness are often reinforced through learned experiences and systemic inequalities, where repeated exposure to powerless positions, especially due to external forces like economic disparities, social status, racism or physical dominance, instills a deep sense of inability and fear. However, strategies such as collective power and direct action like forming unions or organizing strikes, demonstrate effective means of countering powerlessness. Additionally, powerlessness can become a self-perpetuating cycle, leading to further withdrawal, helplessness and even self-destructive behaviour when individuals internalize their lack of power as personal failure.
This cycle can be particularly damaging when external systemic powerlessness intersects with learned feelings of powerlessness, creating a profound impact on individuals’ ability to assert themselves and pursue change, highlighting the importance of recognising and addressing both the external and internalized aspects of powerlessness.
The distinction between being powerless over one’s addiction versus other aspects of life, emphasising the importance of seeking external support and treatment. This step cultivates self-awareness and acceptance, crucial for moving forward in recovery. It acknowledges that overcoming addiction requires more than willpower; it necessitates a combination of medical intervention and communal support, akin to the treatment approach for other serious health conditions.
Admitting to this powerlessness, is therefore an acknowledgement of a feeling or emotion that in turn highlights the actual issue at hand and can then become the first step towards regaining control over one’s life, setting the stage for personal recovery filled with both progress and setbacks but always with the potential for improvement and intent of healing.
Understanding that you have lost control over your substance use is the fundamental realisation that motivates many individuals to seek help from rehabilitation programs or support groups.
The notion of loss of control has been widely recognised for many years within addiction treatment and research. It has been a significant factor in shaping how addiction is understood and approached. Treatment approaches often focus on helping individuals regain control over their lives and develop healthier coping mechanisms to avoid relapse.
Various terms related to loss of control have been developed to further describe the phenomenon. For instance, “powerlessness” is a term often used to convey the feeling of helplessness and inability to stop using substances. Similarly, the concept of “craving” refers to an intense desire or urge to engage in substance use, which can also contribute to the loss of control.
Founded in 2008, WeDoRecover has evolved from an advisory service for addiction treatment into a comprehensive provider of care, following its 2019 merger with Changes Addiction Rehab in Johannesburg. Specialising in connecting patients to top-tier addiction treatment centers in the UK, South Africa and Thailand, WeDoRecover supports individuals globally, including those from the United Arab Emirates and Europe. Accepting both South African medical aid and international health insurance our organisation facilitates access to high-quality treatment for substance and alcohol use disorders, offering individualised care that addresses the physical, mental and social needs of patients.
Our team, led by Gareth Carter, offers empathetic and professional support, guiding you through every step of the treatment process. Whether you're in South Africa or abroad, our acceptance of various insurance plans makes quality care accessible, providing a platform for lasting recovery and a healthier future.
Inpatient Rehab
Rehab care is a good option if you are at risk of experiencing strong withdrawal symptoms when you try stop a substance. This option would also be recommended if you have experienced recurrent relapses or if you have tried a less-intensive treatment without success.
Outpatient
If you're committed to your sobriety but cannot take a break from your daily duties for an inpatient program. Outpatient rehab treatment might suit you well if you are looking for a less restricted format for addiction treatment or simply need help with mental health.
Therapy
Therapy can be good step towards healing and self-discovery. If you need support without disrupting your routine, therapy offers a flexible solution for anyone wishing to enhance their mental well-being or work through personal issues in a supportive, confidential environment.
Mental Health
Are you having persistent feelings of being swamped, sad or have sudden surges of anger or intense emotional outbursts? These are warning signs of unresolved trauma mental health. A simple assesment by a mental health expert could provide valuable insights into your recovery.
Finding the right rehab close to you is simple with WeDoRecover. Our network includes the finest rehab centers, ensuring personalised, quality care for your recovery needs. Let Gareth Carter and our empathetic team help guide you to a center that feels right for you, offering expert care and support. Start your healing today by choosing a rehab that's not just close to you, but also that truly cares about your loved ones recovery.