A powerful quote from Dr. Caroline Leaf, “The brain does not change itself. Our mind changes the brain!” shows that old patterns of thinking have to be put away and new ways have to be learned. People who believe that it’s impossible to change are adding a stumbling block to their own recovery. Without the mindset of hope they will not be able to change.
Empower yourself to change by renewing your mind.
Romans 12:2
”Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind….
You have to admit that you have a problem, choose to change and then take action
- Change becomes a possibility when we prepare to embrace the truth and are prepared learn new ways to cope with the challenges we face in life.
- Change also comes about when we take a different course of action and learn to take charge of our lives.
“You control your brain…your brain does not control you”. Dr. Caroline Leaf
Chemical dependencies can be difficult to get away from but they’re not impossible to shake off.
Talking to a counsellor can bring about understanding that enables the addict to move from the negativity of improbability to possibility that offers hope for lasting change. Some people may need to attend a drug & alcohol rehabilitation centre.
Symptoms of chemical dependency explained by the Meier Clinics Foundation.
Chemical Dependency
1. Deterioration of relationships, including such things as avoidance of activities, refusal to accept responsibilities at home, etc.
2. Noticeable changes in personal preferences and interests such as sudden interest in distasteful music, books, and movies, or changes in clothing style, make-up, or hair.
3. Negative personality changes such as no motivation, depression, or “conning” behaviour and unpredictable mood swings.
4. Deterioration in school performance and other school activities.
5. Physical changes, including frequent sore throat, cough, red eyes, etc.
6. Legal problems, including missing money at home, shoplifting, vandalism, and traffic problems.
7. Negative changes in peer group. Two things drive nearly all addictions—lack of connectedness and shame.
Don’t let shame be what’s keeping you from attaining your healing. Let it go will release you from the shame that binds you to that addiction.“
Where can I learn to change?
Learn to take control of your life, see a counsellor, church pastor or your GP who will be able to guide you to local resources that can help you in your community.
Search for a Counsellor near you: www.theaca.net.au
Lifeline’s Substance Abuse & Addiction website: https://www.lifeline.org.au/Get-Help/Facts—Information/Substance-Abuse—Addiction/Substance-Abuse-and-Addiction
24 Hour Emergency Counselling Services
DirectLine 1800 888 236 24 hours a day, 7 days a week Confidential alcohol and drug counselling and referral line. – See more at: http://www.druginfo.adf.org.au/contact-numbers/help-and-support#sthash.AoJNmnn0.dpuf
Lifeline on 13 11 14
Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800
Men’s Line Australia on 1300 789 978
Sources:
Meier Clinics Foundation: http://www.meierclinics.com/xm_client/client_documents/Symptoms_of_Addiction.pdf
Where To Get Help
If you or someone you know needs help there are several ways you can get it.
Seek the help of your doctor.
Search for a professional counsellor near you www.theaca.net.au
Lifeline A 24 hour counselling services for those in crisis 13 11 14
Kids Helpline Counselling service 1800 551 800
Men’s Helpline – 24/7 Counselling 1300 789 978
BECOME A QUALIFIED COUNSELLOR
Visit our ENQUIRE NOW page. Fill out your details and we will send you some information about our accredited Christian counselling courses with Christ centred bible based teaching.
Contact aifc during business hours on 1300 721 397 or 02 6242 5111 from 9am – 5pm Monday to Friday.
Have you thought about becoming a qualified counsellor? It’s a great opportunity to learn how you can extend God's love and grace to the hurting out in the community.
For those who would like to enrol in aifc’s accredited Christian counselling courses we have two intakes per year for courses commencing around the following months:
Enrolment Season - opens approximately 2 months prior to our courses commencing. Enrol online here during our enrolment season.
We also offer two modes of study:
A Master of Counselling course was introduced in 2018.