May Health Month – week four – Addictions Awareness

Life is stressful and everyone needs something to help them relax. While some people manage to find healthy ways of relaxing everyone is tempted by vices such as alcohol, tobacco and drugs.

The problem though is that this form of “self-medication” commonly brings out an addiction – the coping mechanism becomes an even greater problem unto itself.

There are other more sustainable coping mechanisms and lifestyle choices to consider. What makes the healthier choices less desirable for some people, however, is that they won’t provide you with gratification without requiring you to put in a little effort.

Lighting up a joint and going for a jog are measurably different activities. But, just as drug and alcohol abuse commonly damages self-perception, it may be the most challenging activities can enhance feelings of self-worth, build confidence and improve self-respect.