What common feelings do virtually all substance abusers experience, regardless of personality differences?

Individuals struggling with substance abuse commonly experience a range of intense emotions, particularly remorse, self-hatred, and shame. These feelings often stem from the consequences of their substance use, including negative impacts on personal relationships, health, and responsibilities.

Remorse arises when the individual reflects on their actions and the harm caused to themselves and others due to their addiction. This can lead to self-hatred, as they may feel disgusted with themselves for their inability to control their substance use or for the choices they have made. Shame is another powerful emotion that can overwhelm individuals, as they may feel they have fallen short of societal, familial, or personal expectations. This trio of negative emotions can perpetuate a cycle of addiction, as these feelings might lead individuals to use substances as a means of coping or escaping their distress.

Understanding these common emotional experiences is crucial for counselors, as they can provide a foundation for discussing recovery and support strategies tailored to help clients navigate these feelings positively.