Addiction and Substance Use

Addiction can be a complex mental health and social issue, affecting many Canadians. In fact, an estimated 21% of Canadians will meet the criteria for addiction in their lifetime. At The Wyld Hearts Collective of YYC, we understand the challenges that come with addiction and offer support and resources to all individuals impacted by addiction, to help you navigate this difficult time.

When does use become abuse?

Addiction Treatment Alberta, counselling, nutritional coaching, recovery coaching, intervention, treatment planning

Generally there are two signs that a person’s substance use should be examined.

Harmful consequences; and
Loss of control

Harmful Consequences

These can range from mild (hungover, or late for work) to severe (homelessness and disease). Harm, while seemingly small, can build up over time. If a person continues to use despite these consequences, they may have a substance use problem.

The harms of substance use can affect every aspect of a person’s life. Some examples are:

injuries while under the influence
feelings of anxiety, irritability or depression
trouble thinking clearly
blackouts
problems with relationships
spending money on substances rather than on food, rent or other essentials
legal problems related to substance use
loss of hope, feelings of emptiness.

Loss of control

Some people may be aware that their substance use causes problems but continue to use, even when they want to stop. They may use more than they intended, or in situations where they didn’t want to use. Some may not see that their substance use is out of control and is causing problems in their lives. This is often referred to as being “ denial.” This so-called denial, however, might simply be

a lack of awareness or insight into the situation. Whether people realize it or not, lack of control over use is another sign that substance use is a problem.

What causes addiction?

There are several factors that may contribute to a person developing a substance use disorder.

Genetic Factors:: The risks are higher for those who have SUD in their family, As much as 2 generations back.

Mental health issues: Research shows that over half of those with SUD’s also have had mental health problems. ADHD, Anxiety and Depression are among the top contributors.

Coping with thoughts and feelings: In times that are difficult, people may turn to substances as a way of coping. Substances can, for the short-term, alleviate stress, boredom, or sadness. Some also use substances as a way of being more social.

Other factors include:

poverty, family conflicts, chaos or stress
having friends who drink or use other drugs
not fitting in socially, or being excluded because of race, ethnicity, • gender, age, sexual orientation, abilities or other factors
emotional, physical or sexual abuse
experiencing discrimination or oppression.

Our Approach to Addiction Therapy:

Addiction is a deeply impactful and frequently tragic concern that significantly affects families. We extend a warm invitation to family members and eagerly anticipate engaging in conversations with them.

At The Wyld Hearts Collective our aim is to:

To assist individuals in enhancing their understanding of how substance use affects their daily lives and implementing practical measures to minimize their use of substances.

Examine the thoughts and emotions that arise during sessions, guiding individuals in acquiring the skills to process and navigate them effectively.

Foster overall well-being, encompassing physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions, by helping individuals:
- Manage cravings and resist the urge to use substances.
- Address their needs through assertive communication.
- Cultivate a healthy lifestyle.
- Discover ways to connect with people and build relationships outside of substance use.
- Alleviate stress.

We use a variety of techniques based on the needs of those we are working with including:

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT):
This evidence-supported approach to addiction treatment falls within the realm of psychotherapy, prompting individuals to identify and analyze their adverse thought and behavioral tendencies in connection with substance misuse and concurrent challenges. The primary objective of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is to assist individuals in modifying these patterns, enhancing their self-control and self-awareness, and nurturing the acquisition of improved coping abilities.

Motivational Interviewing:
As a variant of psychotherapy, our certified therapists employ motivational interviewing (MI) approaches to engage with patients at their current readiness level and, if required, guide them from a state of uncertainty regarding treatment toward a sincere, intrinsic motivation to transform detrimental behaviors.
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Psychodynamic Therapy:
Psychodynamic therapy assists individuals in comprehending how their past experiences unconsciously shape their current behaviors. It accomplishes this by facilitating an exploration of unresolved issues and recognizing the enduring impacts of dysfunctional relationships that contribute to their substance misuse.

Family Support and Therapy:
Addiction is frequently characterized as a condition that affects not only the individual struggling with substance abuse but also their entire family unit. Family members often require support to cope with the challenges associated with addiction. We are can arrange both in-person and online therapy sessions tailored specifically for family members. These sessions aim to provide a supportive and therapeutic environment where family members can address their unique needs, learn effective coping strategies, and work towards healing and recovery alongside their loved one who is facing addiction.

Alternative Therapies:
To provide patients with the most comprehensive care available, our evidence-based therapies for substance abuse are often provided in tandem with alternative therapies. Holistic healing methods, such as body movement, walking in nature, mindfulness, and meditation, are regular components of our programming. We may even have a furry friend accompany us,

How do I know if my substance use is a problem?

If you think your substance use may be causing problems in your life, try the following questionnaire, called the cage (each letter stands for a key word in the four questions):

1. Have you ever tried to Cut down on your drinking or other drug use?

2. Have you ever felt Angry at or annoyed by someone else’s com- ments about your drinking or other drug use?

3. Have you ever felt Guilty about your drinking or other drug use?

4. Have you ever used alcohol or other drugs as an Eye-opener—that is, have you used first thing in the morning?

If you answer yes to two or more of these questions, you may have a substance use problem. Even a “yes” answer to one question might be a cause for concern and worth investigating further.