Thanks you for your replies.

lowinmood: have you seen any examples of mindfulness-based techniques being used in cases like mine? I'd love to read something on this (e.g. a case study, etc.).

mygrandjourney: at first glance, I'm not sure if habit reversal training sounds like a good fit, as this was a one-off rather than a habit. Have you seen it successfully used in such cases?

Patagonia: I wish that I could blame my parents! (No: I like being responsible for my actions.) What you've been able to do sounds wonderful - and hopeful - thank you.