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Addictions

Natural Highs

Answered by Jim LaPierre, LCSW, CCS

Question

Is there any kind of intoxicating substance that has no negative side effects?

Your question inexplicably delights me. The short answer is "no." The better answer is what I give people who describe a desire for an "altered state of consciousness." Infatuation is an amazing high with no side effects. Love is even better but it's longer lasting and less potent (though withdrawal can be excruciatingly painful). Sex is an amazing high especially when you're with someone who not only knows what they're doing but also places a high value on reciprocity. Creativity, art work, expression and collaboration all provide me with a natural high. Connection, intimacy, new friendships and rekindling old friendships - these are the highs I value most. Hope you get to have lots of them

About the Expert

Jim LaPierre

LCSW, CCS

Brewer, United States of America

Specialties

Anger Management, Gay Lesbian Issues, Spirituality, Divorce, Compulsive Disorders, Trauma and PTSD, Life Coaching, Addiction or Substance Abuse, OCD, Mood Disorders, Parenting, Domestic Abuse or Domestic Violence, Anxiety or Fears, ADHD, Impulse Control Disorders, Relationship Issues, Women, Loss or Grief, Eating Disorders, Depression, Finding Your Purpose in Life

License

my_license #LC9830