Addiction

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Addiction

 

Addiction: what is it?

If you have an addiction, you're not alone. According to the charity Action on Addiction, one in three of us are addicted to something.

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 nicotine, but it's possible to be addicted to just about anything, including: Work, the internet, solvents, shopping and sex.

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 can feel 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

gambling

The strain of managing an addiction can seriously damage your studies, work life and relationships. In the case of substance abuse (for example, drugs and alcohol), an addiction can have serious psychological and physical effects.

Some studies suggest addiction is genetic, but environmental factors, such as being around other people with addictions, are also thought to increase the risk.

An addiction 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 your GP for advice or contact an organisation that specialises in helping people with addictions. Please also see the links on these webpages for further support.

Gambling addiction:

Support in Nottinghamshire

Time Out is a Nottingham based gambling harm project hoping to raise awareness, reduce the associated stigma and start the conversation about addiction and harmful gambling. Email for support here.

Self Help web links:

Gaming and Social Media addictions:

Sex and love addiction:

Find the student mental health and substance misuse guide here.

 

 

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