Chronic addiction to substances or to certain behaviours can have a devastating effect on the mental health and lives of both the sufferer and of those closest to them. Dependency can take many forms – dependency on substances such as nicotine, alcohol, food, solvents, illegal drugs or prescription medication; or certain behaviours such as gambling, gaming, sexual activity, work, exercise, the internet or shopping.
A dependency is defined as not having control over doing, taking or using something to the point where it could be harmful to you. This can rapidly cause significant social, economic, health, and/or legal consequences, so it is important that abusive behaviours such as these are tackled early on before they destroy lives – the longer the dependency goes on, the more difficult it can be to help the sufferer and to get them back on the path to recovery.
Engagement in activities or the use of substances can give an intense sense of pleasure or ‘high’ and create a powerful urge to repeat the behaviour or use of the substance. This ‘high’ means that withdrawal from the substance or behaviour can be intensely unpleasant. The urge therefore to repeat the behaviour or substance use and avoid an unpleasant withdrawal becomes all the more difficult to resist. Often with a dependency as time goes on, more and more of the substance or behaviour is needed to satisfy cravings and to achieve the desired ‘high’. A cycle develops, and the habit becomes very hard to stop.
Some studies suggest addiction can be genetic. Being around other people with addictions is also thought to increase the risk. Sometimes an addiction can develop as a way of blocking out difficult issues and can be triggered by life events such as unemployment, relationship problems and bereavement, or by life circumstances such as money problems, stress and emotional or professional pressure, or it can be a reaction to an existing mental health condition, such as depression or anxiety.
Some of the tell-tale signs someone may be suffering from an addiction include:
Treatment for addiction will depend on the type of addiction and its severity. Sometimes if an addiction is a reaction to another mental health condition, such as depression, it will be more effective to treat the condition first and then tackle the addiction. The first step is to visit your GP who may suggest a detoxification programme which may include therapies such as CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy). Alternatively, they may recommend you visit a mental health professional who can diagnose and treat both the addiction and any accompanying mental health condition. For severe addictions, it may be necessary to enter a residential rehabilitation facility where the problem can be treated intensely.
Visit our pages on Alcohol Misuse and Drug Misuse for further information on these particular addictions.
Further information on addiction can also be found online from a variety of organisations specialising in helping sufferers of addictions and their families.
Addictions can involve both substances and behaviours. Common substance addictions include alcohol, nicotine, illegal drugs, prescription medications, and food. Behavioural addictions often involve gambling, gaming, internet use, shopping, sex, and work.
Addictions often develop when a substance or behaviour provides a powerful sense of reward or relief. Over time, people may rely on it to cope with stress, trauma, or mental health conditions like anxiety or depression. Genetic and environmental factors can also increase the risk of developing addictions.
Signs of addictions include mood swings, secrecy, changes in appearance, poor performance at work or school, dishonesty, and withdrawal from relationships. People with addictions may become irritable, anxious, or depressed when they can’t access the substance or behaviour.
Yes. Addictions are treatable with the right support. Treatment may include therapy (such as CBT), detox programmes, medication, and rehabilitation services. Many people recover fully with the right intervention and long-term support.
Yes. Many people with addictions also experience mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, or ADHD. Sometimes, the addiction develops as a way to cope with emotional distress. In such cases, treating both the addiction and the underlying mental health issue is essential for lasting recovery.
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