Guide

How to Avoid Addiction Transference & Save Yourself

Creator: Anna-Grace Washington
Published: 2022-08-25T12:00:00-05:00

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Written by

Anna-Grace Washington

Medical Content Writer

Medically reviewed by

Dr. William J. McCreight III, MD

Medical Director, 2019–2024

Published August 25, 2022

Reviewed and updated July 24, 2026

& Save Yourself

Most Recovering Addicts Fall in This Pitfall
Addiction Transference Causes Serious Trouble
Take a Conscious Decision to Stay Away from All Addictions
Join Individual or Group Treatments

Addiction transference is a condition in which a person addicted to one particular drug gets addicted to another while recovering from the previous drug. It is also called cross-addiction and it is a much more serious problem than being addicted to one drug.

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The reasons for this multiple addiction condition are many. Sometimes, people tend to shift to another drug without the knowledge of addiction to it. Sometimes, they find the other drug to give them the same euphoric high as their previous drug. Whatever the reason may be, this condition is not good for one’s health and they should get treated immediately.

Most Recovering Addicts Fall in This Pitfall

Addiction transference is more prominent among people who are on their way toward recovery. It usually happens during the relapse phase, where they tend to get back to their drug habits, out of compulsion.

One example is when a person recovering from cocaine addiction starts to abuse alcohol instead. This, they do so out of compulsion. It was also found that people with active substance use disorders were twice as likely to develop another substance use, compared to individuals whose substance use disorder was in the remission phase.

Addiction Transference Causes Serious Trouble

Some patients also tend to believe that the new addiction could help them get rid of the old one. But it seldom does so. The new drug and its accompanying effects tend to overlap with the old condition and make it worse for them.

It is not only limited to drugs too. Sometimes people tend to get addicted to pleasure-inducing activities such as eating, sex, gambling, and even shopping, while in their recovery phase. This, not only causes serious trouble to the person, mentally but can take a toll on them physically too.

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Take a Conscious Decision to Stay Away from All Addictions

If you or your loved one shows symptoms of addiction transference during the recovery phase, it is necessary that you take some concrete steps toward it.

The first thing to do is to take a conscious decision to stay away from all possible addictions from now on. With enough willpower, you can overcome the urge to give in to the new drugs. Another way is to consult your physician or psychologist. They will provide you with counseling to help you gain more control of your mind.

Join Individual or Group Treatments

Individual treatments for addiction transference like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy can help a lot too. In this, you can explore your thought patterns and feelings that contribute to substance use and compulsive behaviors. You will also learn to control every aspect of your life and stay sober with sheer willpower.

Group therapy can help too. Attending group sessions with people who are going through similar struggles will help you learn different coping mechanisms. You will learn that you are not alone on this and have a peer group supporting you constantly.

Both these treatments play a unique & important role in your recovery. Depending on your exact needs, you might have to choose individual treatment during early stages of the recovery & group therapy later.

If you’re ready to get help with overcoming your addiction, we offer detox programs in Austin, Houston, and Colorado Springs. Call (866) 710-7710 to speak with an admissions representative or contact us online today.

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Medical disclaimer

The content on this page is for general educational information only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional. Withdrawal and substance use conditions can involve serious health risks, so individual care decisions should be made with a licensed provider who understands your medical history. Prescription medications, including antidepressants and antipsychotics, must be used only under the supervision of a qualified clinician, and you should never start, stop, or change any medication without medical guidance. If you experience severe or rapidly worsening symptoms, signs of medical emergency, or thoughts of self-harm, call 911 in the United States or seek immediate emergency care. For confidential mental health support at any time, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

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