Chaos Breeds Suffering When Addiction Takes Control Of Life

The term “unmanageable” in addiction recovery refers to the point where a person’s life becomes chaotic due to addiction, marked by a loss of control over actions, thoughts and emotions. This state leads to negative consequences and disrupts various life aspects, including work, school, home responsibilities, relationships, finances, health and legal standing.

Originating from the early days of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) in the 1930s, the concept is central to AA’s Twelve Steps program and widely recognised in addiction treatment. It involves acknowledging the powerlessness over addiction and the resulting unmanageable life. This acceptance is a important step in the recovery process.

Recognising life’s unmanageability can motivate individuals to seek help and begin addiction treatment. This process is essential for regaining control and moving towards a healthier future. Unmanageability varies per individual, based on personal circumstances and the specific addiction.

In addiction treatment, professionals assist in identifying the roots of addiction and developing effective coping strategies, guiding individuals towards a more sustainable and fulfilling life.

Has Your Life Become Unmanageable

The first step of AA’s 12-step program, also adapted in various other fellowships, involves two key acknowledgments. Firstly, it requires admitting powerlessness over one’s addiction, recognising the inability to control substance use. This admission is often straightforward for many, as they experience the inability to stop using despite a strong desire to do so.

The second aspect of this step is recognising the unmanageability of life due to addiction. This is more challenging, as denial is a common trait in addicts. Many fail to see how their lives have spiraled into chaos, normalising behaviors like lying, engaging in criminal activities and neglecting responsibilities. Accepting this unmanageability is fundamental for progressing through the remaining steps.

Indicators of life becoming unmanageable due to addiction include a strong preference for substance use over family or work commitments, poor health and sleep patterns, avoidance of social events without substances, relapsing into harmful usage patterns and engaging in risky behaviors while under the influence. Additionally, neglecting household duties, job instability, financial troubles, poor self-care, deteriorating relationships and experiencing mood swings and isolation are common signs.

Recognising these signs is essential for seeking help and learning to live a balanced life. Renascent offers consultations for those feeling overwhelmed by addiction and its impact on their lives.

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