Addiction as It Usually Is
Addiction is a common problem, but help is available.
Addiction is defined as not having control over doing, taking, or using something to the point where it could be harmful to you.
Addiction is most commonly associated with gambling, drugs, alcohol, and smoking, but it’s possible to be addicted to just about anything, including:
work – some people are obsessed with their work to the extent that they become physically exhausted; if your relationship, family, and social life are affected and you never take holidays, you may be addicted to work;
internet – as computer and mobile phone use has increased, so too have computer and internet addictions; people may spend hours each day and night surfing the internet or gaming while neglecting other aspects of their lives;
solvents – volatile substance abuse is when you inhale substances such as glue, aerosols, petrol, or lighter fuel to give you a feeling of intoxication;
shopping – shopping becomes an addiction when you buy things you don’t need or want to achieve a buzz; this is quickly followed by feelings of guilt, shame, or despair.
What causes addictions?
There are lots of reasons why addictions begin. In the case of drugs, alcohol, and nicotine, these substances affect the way you feel, both physically and mentally.
These feelings can be enjoyable and create a powerful urge to use the substances again.
Gambling may result in a similar mental “high” after a win, followed by a strong urge to try again and recreate that feeling. This can develop into a habit that becomes very hard to stop.
Being addicted to something means that not having it causes withdrawal symptoms, or a “come down”. Because this can be unpleasant, it’s easier to carry on having or doing what you crave, and so the cycle continues.
Often, an addiction gets out of control because you need more and more to satisfy a craving and achieve the “high”.
How addictions can affect you
The strain of managing an addiction can seriously damage your work life and relationships.
In the case of substance misuse (for example, drugs and alcohol), an addiction can have serious psychological and physical effects.
Some studies suggest a person’s risk of becoming addicted is partly genetic, but environmental factors, such as being around other people with addictions, are also thought to increase the risk.
Behaviors such as substance misuse can be a way of blocking out difficult issues. Unemployment and poverty can trigger addiction, along with stress and emotional or professional pressure.
Getting help for addictions
Addiction is a treatable condition. Whatever the addiction, there are lots of ways you can seek help. You could see a GP for advice or contact an organization that specializes in helping people with addictions.
You can contact one of our qualified experts to get advice for free right now.