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Addiction

About addiction

Addiction involves compulsive engagement in substance use or behaviours despite harmful consequences. It is a complex health condition that affects brain function and behaviour, often involving a cycle of craving, relief, and negative aftermath. Addiction is not limited to substances like alcohol or drugs; it can also involve behaviours such as gambling, gaming, or internet use.

How addiction can show up

  • Craving: Intense urges or desire to use a substance or engage in a behaviour, often triggered by specific cues.
  • Loss of control: Difficulty cutting back or stopping usage even when you want to, or using more than intended.
  • Continued use despite harm: Persisting with the behaviour or substance even when it causes problems in relationships, work, or physical and mental health.
  • Neglecting responsibilities: Falling behind on obligations at work, school, or home due to the time or energy spent on the addiction.
  • Tolerance: Needing more of the substance or behaviour to achieve the same effect or "high".
  • Withdrawal: Experiencing physical or emotional symptoms (like anxiety, shaking, or irritability) when stopping or reducing.

Further information on addiction

Addiction is often stigmatised, but it is important to understand it as a health condition rather than a moral failing. It often serves as a coping mechanism for underlying pain, trauma, or stress. The brain's reward system changes over time, making it increasingly difficult to resist impulses without support. Recovery is a process that involves not just stopping the behaviour, but building a life where the behaviour is no longer necessary.

Self-help ideas for addiction

  • Identify triggers: Pay attention to the people, places, emotions, or times of day that trigger your urge to use.
  • Delay and distract: Cravings are often like waves; they peak and then subside. When a craving hits, try to wait 15 minutes and do something distracting like going for a walk or calling a friend.
  • Build a support network: connect with friends, family, or support groups who understand your goal and can offer encouragement.
  • Practice self-care: Ensure you are eating nutritious food, getting enough sleep, and moving your body, as physical health supports mental resilience.

When to see a psychologist

  • You feel unable to stop or control your use despite trying.
  • Your relationships, work, or studies are suffering.
  • You are experiencing health problems (physical or mental) related to the addiction.
  • You are using substances or behaviours to cope with stress, anxiety, or depression.

How we help with addiction

  • Evidence-based therapy, such as CBT and Motivational Interviewing, to understand triggers and patterns.
  • Relapse prevention planning to prepare for high-risk situations.
  • Skills for managing cravings and building alternative, healthy coping mechanisms.
  • Support for underlying stressors, trauma, or mental health concerns that drive the addiction.