Stuart Downing DMH CPNLP DHyp EMDR Dip. MNACHP Cht
Until recently, very little was known about how the brain can turn off the desire for addictions and how the subconscious mind can stop addictive urges.
We know that the brain is constantly changing. The neuroplasticity of the brain allows focused treatment to create new neural connections. Without treatment the brain uses neural pathways to trigger emotions, needs, pleasure and cravings, which feed the addiction.
Treatment changes those responses by rewiring of the neural pathways and the subconscious mind, thereby bringing an entirely different reaction. Post treatment, when exposed to any of the old triggers, the brain doesn’t automatically respond in the old way because it now responds in a stronger and healthier manner. The very thing that used to cause cravings and relapse, now actually reinforces the commitment to overcome the addictive behaviour.
Based on what we now know about the brain, the neuroplasticity and the biology of belief, you can begin to approach addiction and recovery from a new perspective. Using newly discovered and clinically accepted methodologies, the mind and behaviour modification techniques work to retrain and recondition at the core unconscious level. The brain is actually a supple, malleable organ, as ready to unlearn as it is to learn, capable of transforming vicious circles into virtuous circles of resetting and repairing its internal communications. Far more than once dreamed possible, the brain can, if not always, cure/heal itself.
Remember, that no matter how many times you have tried to conquer your addiction and failed, it does not mean that you cannot succeed! No matter how hopeless you might feel, there is finally a way to end your struggle with addiction.