Shame is a root cause of addictive behavior. Negative belief systems often cause people to turn to addiction. In turn, addictive behavior leads people into deeper cycles of guilt and shame. The false notion that “I am bad” often dominates the experience of addicts, leading them down even more destructive paths. Substance use often starts as a symptom, or even a solution, which then progressively becomes a problem. Self-deception, self-loathing, self -condemnation and self-destructive behavior come with the territory. The truth is that addiction is a disease which afflicts the sufferer physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. As a first step, the symptom (substance use) must be arrested. But unless the deeper underlying causes, such as shame, are identified and eradicated, most will again become symptomatic, regardless of consequences. Shame Prevents Emotional and Spiritual Recovery Shame and addiction are isolating. It denies people of the support and connections necessary for healing and growth. This emotional, psychological, and spiritual deprivation often leads addicts to return to their old ways of dealing with their shame. The substance becomes a counterfeit form of intimacy. It is said that “addiction is the opposite of connection”. We must step out of the shadow of shame into the healing light and warmth of relationships with others. The Road Forward A goal of drug and alcohol treatment and recovery is to help addicts to discover their worth. It is crucial to have somewhere that we can tell our truth without judgment. Most of us need empathetic help to identify and overcome the shame-based lies which cause and perpetuate addictive behavior. Renaissance Recovery Center is a safe and caring place to start on your journey of self-discovery.