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Moving to a new location should mean a new start in life, but things do not always work out this way – especially if you are trying to run away from your problems. The change in scenery might lift your mood and provide a temporary distraction but, if you are dealing with an addiction problem, this reprieve is unlikely to last. It is common for those dealing with alcohol or drug abuse to move somewhere new in the hope it will help them change; however, listed below are six reasons why type geographical change is unlikely to work.
1. Wherever You Go, There You Are
The problem with using a geographical change to cure an addiction is that you are still going to be you, despite the new location. Only individuals having not yet developed a physical dependence on alcohol or drugs are likely to benefit from being in an environment where there is less temptation. If you are already addicted, you will probably be able to engage in substance abuse no matter where you move. There are examples of alcoholics moving to places like Saudi Arabia, where drinking is illegal, but still dying from alcohol abuse, even in that country.
2. A Geographical Change Can Mean Being Away From Your Support Network
One of the dangers of moving to a new location is that there could be even fewer controls over your behaviour. If there is no family around to see what you are up to, you may feel even less of a need to monitor your intake. In fact, a common reason for choosing a geographical change is the secret desire to be away from any restrictions on alcohol or drug use.
3. Moving to a New Location Can Mean Additional Stress
Moving to a new location can be one of the most stressful things you can ever do. There will be a high temptation for you to turn to substance abuse as a means to cope with this additional stress. The problem with stress is that people can be very bad at recognising it, which is likely to be the case if you are abusing alcohol or drugs.
4. It is an Attempt to Run Away from Problems
The geographical cure is similar to substance abuse in that it is often an attempt to run away from problems. This type of coping strategy might seem to work initially, but it means the problems are still there, festering away. The only way to deal with problems is to face them, which is ultimately easier than running away.
5. Changing Location Can Mean More Suffering for Loved Ones
Getting your spouse or children to move location would mean them having to make a significant sacrifice. It can be particularly traumatic for kids and constantly moving them around could make it hard for them to establish lasting relationships in later life. The geographical change could act as an additional source of suffering for loved ones when they have already suffered enough.
6. It Can Delay Recovery
If a person trapped in addiction moves to a new location, the distraction can mean that things seem to improve in his or her life. This means that the individual becomes less willing to consider recovery. Delaying getting the help needed could mean missing the chance at recovery; at the very least, it would mean them having to endure additional suffering. Moving to a new location can also make it harder for the person to access recovery resources because they are going to be in unfamiliar territory.
