What we know about addictions

Addiction is when somebody becomes dependant on an activity, substance, behaviour or object . It can control someone’s life to the extent that it can harm them physically, emotionally, mentally or socially. Addictions can deceivingly make people feel like they can escape from life and its problems and be in control but unfortunately this is not the case.

Addictions can include absolutely anything e.g. shopping or spending, sexual activities, gambling, food, sex, prescribed and illegal drugs, alcohol and even other people.

Some of the characteristics or behaviours that addicts can have are;

constantly think about their object, substance or activity
Doing anything in order to achieve their addiction even if it means putting themselves or other in danger
Repeating their obsession over and over again even if they do not want to or told to stop
Depression or other mental health issues
Low self esteem, nervousness
Hiding the addiction
Lack of control of their actions
Denying the problem
Not remembering their behaviour after the event

If someone is addicted they can become completely preoccupied by their habit. If someone does not get what they need they can suffer withdrawal symptoms such as; shaking, excessive sweating, anger, headaches and vomiting. Some people experience visual or auditory hallucinations.

Addictions can be stopped and at last the person can be free to live their life how they want to. BUT addictions are very hard to conquer alone, there are many people and organisations that are there to help you or anyone suffering from an addiction.