When Soothing Becomes Struggle: A Gentle Look at Addiction

Addiction can take many forms - alcohol, substances, food, gambling, shopping, screen use, or pornography. It often begins as a way to cope, to self-soothe, or to escape overwhelming feelings. But over time, what once felt like a lifeline can become something that keeps us stuck, disconnected, or ashamed.

In therapy, we explore the story beneath the behaviour. What’s this habit been helping you manage? What pain is it trying to numb, or what need is it trying to meet?

Addiction isn’t a failure of willpower. It’s often a response to stress, trauma, disconnection, or unmet needs. When we meet it with compassion - not judgment - we create space to understand its function, loosen its grip, and gently begin to heal.

For many people, this includes navigating shame or secrecy - especially around things like porn use, which can feel difficult to talk about. You're not alone, and this is a space where nothing needs to be hidden. Together, we can explore what feels out of balance and support you to rebuild trust in yourself.