Are You a Thrill Seeker?
Have you ever been accused of being a thrill seeker? In active addiction, you probably took a lot of risks. Using drugs is a risk. You may have driven drunk or while high, or even committed petty crimes to help pay for your lifestyle. Drugs and alcohol can numb your inhibitions, causing you to "act out" in many ways. However, some people have trouble giving up their dangerous behavior even after they've been clean and sober for a while.
Understanding the Biology of Thrill-Seeking
Adrenaline is part of your body's normal reaction to stressful situations or excitement. Do you know somebody who always speeds when they get to the expressway? The drama, as well as a bit of fear, is acting as a drug for that person. Some people enjoy the "fight or flight" response a little too much. The body has a fight-or-flight response to help you flee from harm.
For many people, the feeling of fear and then the exhilaration of triumph becomes an addiction. If you know somebody who is an adrenaline junkie, or this sounds like you, then it's essential to realize that you're in dangerous waters.
Addiction to thrill-seeking is dangerous and can also be a trigger to get high or drunk. You may not realize it at first, but thrill-seeking can spiral out of control.
Symptoms of Adrenaline Addiction
Adrenaline addiction can manifest itself in a lot of ways for a person in recovery. One sign is breaking the rules; maybe you steal a few ink pens from work or park in the handicapped space. Do you get a lot of speeding tickets or parking tickets? Do you have trouble sitting still? Do you feel restless when life seems too calm?
These are just a few symptoms of thrill-seeking. Thrill-seeking behavior is also a symptom of some mental health disorders. If you find that you're taking dangerous risks or doing things because you might "get away with it," then it's time to evaluate your choices. If you're truly addicted to thrill-seeking, get help from a therapist.
Healthy coping skills are integral to happiness in recovery. Instead of seeking thrill, try to find balance in your life. Meditation, regular exercise, and talking about your feelings can help you live a calmer, less stressful life. Take your recovery a day at a time and ask for help when you need it.
Getting Help for Addiction
Living with addiction can be scary, lonely, and dangerous. If you're living with addiction, you know there's a better way to live, but you might not know what your first steps should be.
We're here to let you know that recovery is possible! At Las Olas, we offer you a private, safe retreat from the world to detoxify and begin your journey in recovery. The environment is inspiring and gives you a sanctuary to regain your footing in life.
Learn more about how we can help you by calling US (949) 279-1376 or MX (612) 153-5726.