Drug and alcohol addictions are complex conditions. Living with substance abuse can make many parts of life much more challenging. People struggling with addiction need compassionate, comprehensive treatment to address the roots of substance abuse.
Meaningful, long-lasting addiction recovery requires addressing the psychological, behavioral, and physical aspects of addiction. Part of a recovery plan may include behavioral therapies, counseling, and other treatments. These can help people develop healthy coping skills.
Some therapies may help people identify parts of their character that contribute to addiction. Things like dishonesty, impulsivity, or low motivation can keep people stuck in a cycle of substance abuse. Identifying and changing these character “defects” can help people maintain long-term recovery.
This article will explore the benefits of confronting character flaws in recovery. You will learn:
- How common character defects may impact addiction and recovery
- How addiction treatment programs help people address character defects
- How to determine if you need addiction treatment
- Where to find comprehensive treatment and aftercare support
Overcoming addiction can be challenging. Getting treatment can help you reduce destructive behaviors and maintain long-term sobriety. Take the first step of your recovery journey today by contacting the First Step Behavioral Health specialists.
What are Character Defects?
The term “character defect” refers to a trait or characteristic that negatively impacts their daily functioning. Character flaws can also impact relationships or other aspects of life. Some examples of character defects may include:
- Excessive pride
- Greed
- A reactive or quick temper
- Arrogance or superiority
- Self-centeredness
- Dishonesty
- Lack of patience
- Impulsivity
- Anger
- Fear
- Lack of personal values
- Denial
- Jealousy
- Pride
- Intolerance
In some cases, character defects may make parts of life more stressful or challenging. People may use unhealthy coping mechanisms to deal with problems instead of addressing them at their roots. They may drive a wedge between people and their loved ones.
When people become aware of a character flaw, they can address it. Acknowledging a character flaw can be painful, but it can lead to meaningful changes.
Identifying Character Defects and the Relationship to AA
In 12-step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), character defects, sometimes referred to as shortcomings, are often referenced. In step four of the twelve steps, individuals take a “moral inventory” of themselves and their lives to identify these character defects. Identifying these defects is seen as a key part of personal growth and recovery.
Then, step six encourages individuals to become entirely ready to have their defects of character removed, while step seven focuses on humbly asking a higher power to help remove them. This process isn’t about perfection—it’s about self-awareness and a willingness to change.
Do Character Defects Cause Addiction?
Some people think of substance abuse or addiction as a character flaw. People may believe that those struggling with addiction simply need to have more willpower to stop using drugs or alcohol.
The truth is that addiction is not a character flaw, weakness, or moral failing. Addiction is a disease that can impact a person’s mind and body. People with addiction do not choose to continue using drugs or alcohol. Abusing these substances can change how their mind and body work, making it nearly impossible to quit using them.
Character defects may make life more challenging or cause stress. In this way, character flaws may contribute to addiction. However, addiction is a complex condition, and it is not accurate to say character flaws cause it.
Can You Remove Character Defects in Recovery?
People can work to recognize and overcome character defects in addiction recovery. Individuals in recovery may participate in various treatments to recognize character defects. Then, they can change destructive thoughts and behaviors, including substance use.
Here is an overview of some recovery therapies that can help to change character flaws.
Therapy
Talk therapy is an integral part of comprehensive addiction treatment programs. During talk therapy sessions, people work with a licensed mental health provider. People engage in self-reflection, set goals, and learn healthy coping skills. This can help to improve relationships, emotional control, and more.
Support groups
Support groups provide essential support and community for people in recovery. During support groups, people may share stories, respond to others, and work toward goals. During each stage of recovery, people may attend cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) groups, 12-step programs, or other support groups.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness encourages people to stay focused on the present moment. Practicing mindfulness can help people think differently about their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. People can gain new insights into their experiences and improve impulse control. This can give people more control over their behaviors and emotional responses.
There are many ways to identify and address character defects. Contact the First Step Behavioral Health specialists to learn how these therapies help people achieve lifelong recovery.
Do I Need Addiction Treatment?
One of the most important steps in overcoming substance use disorder (SUD) is recognizing it. It can sometimes be challenging to know when to seek treatment. Some signs you or a loved one requires treatment include:
- Using drugs or alcohol more often than before
- Having cravings for drugs or alcohol
- Needing to use more of a substance to get the effects you want
- Having new or worsening mental health symptoms
- Legal, financial, or social trouble related to substance abuse
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms if you cut back or stop substance use
- Continuing to use addictive substances even when it harms you or others
People who become addicted to drugs or alcohol may not be able to stop using them alone. They may need intensive treatment and continuing support to safely stop and prevent relapse in the future.
Contact First Step Behavioral Health specialists to learn what to expect during treatment. You can also explore our holistic rehab or recovery programs.
Find Treatment Now
If you or someone you love lives with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the First Step Behavioral Health specialists to learn about our holistic approach to mental health and addiction treatment. Find out more about our programs or schedule an intake appointment by reaching out today.
