Addiction

Addiction is a progressive and relapse-prone condition that has negative social, emotional and psychological impacts on an individual.

Addiction comes in many different forms. A person can develop an addiction to substances (eg. drugs/alcohol) or to certain activities like playing video games, sex or gambling. People with addiction find it hard to control their actions. They crave and seek out ways to fulfill their wants regardless of the cost.

How do you spot signs of addiction? Symptoms of a possible drug/alcohol addiction include:

1.  Withdrawal. Experiencing physical or emotional withdrawal when substance use is stopped. Emotional withdrawal is just as significant as physical withdrawal. Look out for signs of withdrawal. Was anxiety, irritability, shakes, sweats, nausea, or vomiting experienced?
2.  Limited control. Drinking or using more than you would like to. Do you drink to get drunk? Do you ever regret how much you used the day before?
3.  Negative consequences. Have you continued to use even though there have been negative impacts to your mood, self-esteem, health, job, or family?
4.  Neglected or postponed activities. Putting off or reduced social, recreational, work, or household activities because of your use. Is the usage affecting your social life?
5.  Significant time or energy spent. Have you spent a significant amount of time obtaining, using, concealing, planning, or recovering from your use? Have you spent a lot of time thinking about using? Have you ever concealed or minimized your use? Have you ever thought of schemes to avoid getting caught?
6.  A Desire to cut down. Have you ever made unsuccessful attempts to cut down or control your use?

Do any of these symptoms sound familiar? Know of someone who needs help? Feel free to contact us to book an appointment with our counselors. Talk to us and we will work towards overcoming the issues that you or your loved one may be facing.