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Understanding addiction

A complex condition, a human approach

Addiction is not simply a “lack of willpower”. 
It is a chronic condition with multiple contributing factors that disrupts the lives of those affected… and those close to them.
Whether it involves alcohol, drugs, medication or compulsive behaviours, addiction involves a loss of control and an inability to resist an urge, despite the negative consequences.

Why talk about addiction?

Addiction is a condition recognised by the WHO as such. Like other conditions, it requires specific care and can progress towards sustained remission.

The mechanisms of addiction

Physical

The body becomes accustomed to the substance (or behaviour) and demands more and more of it.

Psychological

Addiction becomes an emotional refuge, a response to pain, stress or emptiness.

Isolation, family conflict, loss of familiar reference points… those close to the person are directly affected.

Social

Addiction involves three dimensions of dependence:

“Addiction means losing the freedom to abstain.
It is neither a vice nor a lack of willpower, but a disruption of a fundamental mechanism: choice.”

Etienne Steiger, Chair of the Guépart association

What a person living with addiction experiences

Addiction and recovery

another path is possible

Recovery from addiction is possible, but it involves much more than stopping substance use.
It takes 3 key steps:

Reconnect with yourself
Learn new ways to manage your emotions
Rediscover a sense of purpose, a goal and a more peaceful relationship with the world

This is where our approach through therapeutic travel comes into its own.  By stepping away from everyday life in a safe, supported setting, a person can begin a lasting process of inner change.

Addiction is often a symptom of deeper distress.  It may arise from trauma, difficulty managing emotions, a need for control or low self-esteem.

Addictive behaviour becomes a strategy for avoiding pain.
It is a vicious circle: the more a person uses, the more isolated they become, the worse they feel… and the more the urge returns.

What about family and friends?

Addiction affects more than the individual.

Family and friends, parents, partners and children also live with an enormous emotional burden: 

Confusion
Guilt
Helplessness
Mental and physical exhaustion

At Guépart, we believe that family and friends play a key role in recovery.
That is why we offer dedicated support for carers, including outside the therapeutic programme.

Support for family and friends

Guépart

Pre-trip therapeutic workshops, to prepare for departure

An immersive therapeutic journey, abroad, away from familiar surroundings and routines

A post-trip follow-up, to consolidate changes and rebuild connections

An approach that complements medical care

Our programme is for people who are already receiving medical care and are in remission or a phase of stabilisation. We offer a three-stage cycle:

person sitting in a chair in front of a man

All supported by a team of professionals in addiction care, psychology, art therapy, mindfulness and other fields.

The therapeutic programme

Useful information

GUÉPART is a non-profit association supporting recovery from addiction through therapeutic travel. Professional guidance and human connection help participants rebuild their lives.

Partners & supporters

Addiction resources

Support for loved ones

FAQ