Where is My Addiction Today? – Understanding HALT

By: Sunday Kapesi

January 26, 2025

Awareness is the greatest agent for change.
Eckhart Tolle

Today, I want to talk about a powerful question I will be asking myself every day going forward, where my recovery is concerned: “Where is my addiction today?”

Being mindful of this helps me identify the feelings driving my actions. Remember, the alcohol, substance abuse, betting, or gambling addiction is the PRESENTING ISSUE, the problem(s) lie underneath that.

Am I hungry, angry, lonely, or tired? H.A.L.T is a simple yet profound tool that allows us to pause, reflect, and create space between the urge and the action.

PERSONAL REFLECTIONS

In my recovery journey, I’ve learned that my addiction thrives on impulsivity and compulsion. I drank when I was angry with myself, others, and situations. I used substances when I was lonely, turned to impulsively eating when I was tired, and struggled with insomnia, anxiety, and stress. I made poor choices when I was simply hungry for attention, recognition, and love. Recognizing these states daily helps me understand my triggers and replace unhealthy reactions with constructive ones.

IMPACTFUL ACTIONS

What can we do to break this cycle?

1. Pause and Reflect: When you feel the pull of addiction, ask yourself, “Am I hungry, angry, lonely, or tired?” Thereafter,

2. Take Action: Call your sponsor, attend AA or NA meetings, or lean on your support group.

3. Be Kind to Yourself: Forgive lapses, learn the lesson, and move forward with grace. Regret will teach you nothing and invite self-resentment and lapses.

4. Be of Service: Helping others humbles you and strengthens your resolve.

IMPACTFUL RESOURCES

For more, explore:

Ted Talk. “Feelings Handle them before they handle you.” -Mandy Saligari
The Recovery Book.” – AL J. Mooney, M.D
Podcast: “Soberful”

CALL TO ACTION

To my fellow recovering addicts and alcoholics, I recommend that you embrace the 12-step recovery process, attend meetings, and stay mindful daily.

To caregivers, walk this journey alongside your loved ones—your support matters, learn the lessons we learn, and understanding H.A.L.T is a good first step to walk with us.