05/01/2026
Some wise words on addiction from the legendary Gabor Maté - "In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts" (photo).
As Gabor explains addiction comes in the form of many different behaviours, as well as the use of different substances.
Addiction is actually very common.
Some addictions carry more social stigma then others.
It's all the same in terms of the brain.
Whether it's disordered eating, shopping addiction, workaholism, alcoholism, he**in addiction etc.
Anxiety and self-soothing behaviour are at the root of addiction. These maladaptive coping mechanisms are established early in life, when we have a lack of soothing from our childhood environment/ relationships.
The healing work with addiction includes being accepting, self-compassionate and using mindful awareness when the addictive urge arises.
Having therapeutic support is beneficial, in the form of personal therapy/ a 12 - step programme.
If you want to talk more about addiction or any other mental health issues feel free to get in touch - hello@rachaelbaxter.com