Description: Whether you struggle with overeating, alcohol, drugs, or smoking, you're all too familiar with the cravings that propel your habit. Cravings--that intense desire for certain substances or behaviors with the aim of feeling pleasure and satisfaction--are the root of all addictive behaviors. Knowing what to do with those urges can make the difference between managing your addiction and giving into it. Cravings and Addictions presents practical strategies based in acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) to help you cope with the cravings at the core of your addiction. You'll learn to recognize the cues that lead to addictive behaviors, and discover how you can move beyond addiction to commit to a life driven by what you care about and want in life. ACT: Accept, Choose, and Take Action to Manage Your Cravings--and Take Back Control of Your Life! ● Accept that cravings are a normal part of everyday life, just like other thoughts and feelings. ● Choose to surrender to the craving--or choose to engage in actions aligned with your goals and values. ● Take action to change your life for the better--and develop a sense of meaning, purpose, and vitality.
Brief description: Megan M. Kelly, PhD, is a licensed clinical psychologist and associate professor in the department of psychiatry at the University of Massachusetts Medical School. She has been involved in addictions research for the past sixteen years, with a particular focus on the development of behavioral interventions for individuals with comorbid addictions and mental health disorders. She has received several VA- and NIH-funded awards to develop and evaluate new behavioral interventions and programs for individuals with co-occurring disorders using ACT principles. She has evaluated, treated, or supervised the treatment of over 2,000 people struggling with addictions.