Hi all,
I came across this article which is an interesting read. It talks about how toxic thinking patterns become addictive because they stimulate the regions of the brain (the pleasure centres) which ultimately support learning (an addiction). Have a read.....
http://blogs.psychcentral.com/relationships/2011/07/toxic-feel-good-thinking-patterns-why-theyre-addictive/
Ever notice how these toxic thinking patterns creep into you daily thoughts? And once they start they're like a snowball gaining size and momentum as it rolls down a steep hill. The longer it rolls the harder it is to stop. When they become a habit the create stress and anxiety and we all know how one can be conditioned to cope with stress (drinking, drinking, and more drinking). How much of your drinking problem is driven by this type of dysfunctional toxic thinking? I catch myself doing this and the first thing I do is stop, recognize how truly ridiculous these thoughts are and challenge them. They are weeds that continue to grow and spread and they do you no good whatsoever. As you stop and challenge them and get rid of them you'll begin to feel better, however, you can't do it while you continue to drink excessively. All that does to fuel the toxic, dysfunctional thinking. It's next to impossible to think rationally and objectively when you're hungover after a long bender. The common theme there are feelings of guilt, shame, and remorse, all toxic emotions and forms of thought. We need to a break from it so we can heal and grow. They are a burden that needs to be left behind.
It makes one consider this idea....is the drinking the problem or is the drinking a means to find a solution, relief from these toxic thinking patterns. Let's face it, a person can only take the negative stress and emotional pain for so long before they have to find some relief and alcohol has provided that solution for far too long. Sadly, society has taught us and continues to promote the idea that we need to take something to relieve or escape pain. Time to start honestly looking at how we are speaking to ourselves and the effect it is having on our sense of well-being.
All the best,
Dave
