Addictive Behavior

We live in an age of addiction, from compulsive gaming and shopping to binge eating and opioid abuse. Sugar can be as habit-forming as cocaine, researchers tell us, and social media apps are hooking our kids. But what can we do to resist temptations that insidiously and deliberately rewire our brains? Nothing, David Courtwright says, unless we understand the history and character of the global enterprises that create and cater to our bad habits.

Addiction is costly on many levels to the individuals affected, their families, and society as a whole, but science may soon be able to offer treatment options to make the road to recovery a little smoother. First, we investigate why and how people succumb to a veritable prison of the mind as sections one and two delve respectively into the psychology and the neurochemistry behind addiction. Subsequent sections break out addictive substances individually: recreational drugs, prescription drugs, alcohol, and nicotine. Finally, section seven examines new avenues for overcoming addiction.

Randall Grange has been tricked into admitting herself into a treatment center and she doesn't know why. She's not a party hound like the others in her therapy group - but then again, she knows she can't live without pills or booze. Raised by an abusive father, a detached mother, and a loving aunt and uncle, Randall both loves and hates her life. She's awkward and a misfit. Her parents introduced her to alcohol and tranquilizers at a young age, ensuring that her teenage years would be full of bad choices, and by the time she's 23 years old, she's a full-blown drug addict.

Society has claimed its victims; dependency upon food, drugs, caffeine, cigarettes, alcohol and sex has taken its toll on many. Deepak Chopra explores the motivation behind these addictions and attempts to teach the listener how to overcome them. Chopra has a charming speaking style full of spirituality and deep commitment to truth. He possesses an inner wisdom and "knowing" that attracts and mesmerizes listeners.

Based on the innovative premise that addiction is not limited to drugs or alcohol, but is truly about the over-the-top, out-of-control lifestyles that have detached Americans from each other and their spiritual Connections (with a capital “C”), Dr. Carol Clark looks at addiction as something in and of itself, a condition rather than a substance abuse or behavioral problem.

Temptation has quickly turned into addiction. Penny Taylor fell hard for the sexy, mysterious, exciting, and dangerous Professor Hunter. But scandalous affairs are meant to go down in flames. Now that he's not speaking to her, she feels numb. And what hurts the most is that he appears to be completely fine. As she struggles to accept that their relationship is really over, her best friend's crude advice is in the back of her mind - the best way to get over someone is to get under someone else.

Live One Life is an eye-opening and heart-touching book. Anyone struggling with traumas or addictions can benefit from the honesty, humility, and hope given in this inspiring listen. Change is an inside job and you must start with yourself because, “If nothing changes…nothing changes”. Through proven solutions, David empowers you to overcome your challenges.

For many in recovery, traditional views of a Higher Power do not resonate. This dissonance left author Buddy C. feeling hopeless. As a result, Buddy entered a cycle of recovery and relapse for over six years. If you are reading this, you, or someone you love, is probably dealing with a life-controlling addiction, even though they have tried to break free. Buddy wrestled with the same dilemma. Buddy tried the 12-step recovery process but found surrendering to a “power greater than ourselves” undefinable and even unattainable.

Discover a path to healing and understanding in The Traumatized Church by New Testament scholar Scot McKnight and therapist Adrienne Gibson. Whether you're a pastor, counselor, church leader, or someone who has been hurt by the church, this book provides a compassionate and practical framework...

Mary-Margaret Stratton, Essene minister, certified raw-food nutritionist, instructional designer, and a "veteran" of 12-step philosophy, discusses how you can radically support recovery and help to heal your addictive and compulsive behaviors through holistic, natural nutrition and positive, mindful behavior modification.