It is a sad but, true fact that many gifted people struggle with addiction. Whether it is drugs, alcohol, or some other substance, talented people seem to be more prone to addiction than the average person. Why is this? There are a number of theories out there, but no one really knows for sure. In this article, we will take a look at some of the possible reasons why gifted people are more likely to struggle with alcohol or drug addiction. We will also discuss ways to overcome addiction and live a healthy, productive life.
1. Unobtainable Expectations
One possible reason why gifted people are more prone to addiction is that they have high expectations for themselves. They often expect to be perfect, and when they inevitably fall short, they turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to cope. Unfortunately, gifted individuals are also used to being the best in everything they do, so when they become addicted, it can be difficult for them to admit that they need help.
If you are a gifted person struggling with addiction, please know that you are not alone. There is hope for recovery, and there are multiple treatment pathways available to help you get started. The first step is admitting you have a problem and seeking professional help. You don’t have to struggle with addiction on your own. There is help available.
2. Emotional Sensitivity
Another reason gifted people struggle with alcohol or drug addiction is that they have high levels of emotion. They feel things very deeply, and sometimes these deep emotions can cause them distress. In order to dull their sensitivity or emotional pain, they turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with life’s difficulties. Gifted individuals might also experience depression due to their heightened awareness of the world around them; this could also lead one down a path toward addiction if not appropriately addressed through therapy and/or medication management by an experienced therapist who specializes in treating patients with mental health issues and addiction.
Additionally, gifted people may use alcohol or drugs to self-medicate. If this is the case, outpatient treatments can be very beneficial for gifted people who are struggling with addiction. It is important to remember addiction is a disease, not a character flaw. Talented people are just as susceptible to it as anyone else. If you, or someone you know, are addicted to drugs or alcohol, seek help right away. There is no shame in admitting that you need assistance; in fact, it takes courage and strength to ask for help.
3. Psychological Distress
Many gifted people suffer from psychological distress. This can be due to the fact that they feel as if they are different from other people and don’t quite fit in. They may also feel like they are a burden to their families or society. Gifted people can also be perfectionists, which can lead to anxiety and depression, which in turn could lead to alcohol and drug abuse.
Gifted people often have a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions that constantly run through their minds. As a result, they often overthink situations, and occasionally it becomes too much for them to handle. This is usually when gifted people will turn to substance abuse to numb and blank out their thoughts. Admission to an intensive outpatient program is usually necessary to help these individuals. An outpatient program will consist of receiving treatment from the comfort of your own home and receiving the professional care and support that you need but still being able to go about your daily life and not be confined to an institution.
4. Loneliness And Boredom
Many gifted people feel lonely and bored because they don’t find that most people can keep up with them intellectually or emotionally. This can lead to a feeling of isolation and a search for something to fill the emptiness. Drugs and alcohol are often appealing because they provide an instant sense of pleasure, excitement, or relief from boredom. But unfortunately, these substances usually make the problems worse in the long run. This is why it’s so important that they have access to professional support from telemed counselors who specialize in treating addiction among individuals with high intelligence levels.
If you know any gifted person or are a gifted person who is struggling with alcohol or drug addiction, it’s vital that you seek help right away. And remember, addiction isn’t something to be ashamed of. Unfortunately, it happens all too often with people who are struggling emotionally, mentally, and physically.