Addiction

ADDICTION

Addiction can be both chemical and behavioural. The key aspects of any addiction is tolerance (a need for more and more) and withdrawal (physical or psychological symptoms that are felt when you aren’t able to have your ‘addiction’). As the addiction becomes stronger it becomes more important than other aspects of your life and you may go to great lengths to keep your habit. This is often to the detriment of relationships, work, school, or even self-care.

Chemical Addiction

Alcohol

Tobacco

Opioids (like heroin)

Prescription drugs (sedatives, hypnotics, or anxiolytics like sleeping pills and tranquilizers)

Cocaine

Cannabis (marijuana)

Amphetamines (like methamphetamine, known as meth)

Hallucinogens

Inhalants

Phencyclidine (known as PCP or Angeldust)

Other unspecified substances

Physical Addiction

Food (eating)

Sex and/or Pornography (attaining, viewing)

Using computers / the internet

Playing video games

Self development

Social media and/or Technological usage

Working

Exercising

Spiritual obsession (as opposed to religious devotion)

Pain (seeking) such as Cutting

Shopping

Co-dependent relationships

Addiction is a massive problem in our society and is often a symptom of a greater problem in the persons life or family system. Addictions may stem from poor coping mechanisms and a lack of support. We need to see addiction as a symptom of this greater problem when considering treatment. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction please contact us for assistance.