Addiction

Do any of these apply to you or someone you know?

• The substance or behaviour is an escape from problems
• The substance or behaviour lifts your mood
• Increasing amounts of the substance or behaviour are necessary to feel satisfaction or to get the same feeling
• Increasing amounts of time is taken up by thinking about the last or the next experience with the substance or activity
• You no longer feel in control of your need for this substance or activity
• You feel restless, irritable or moody when trying to cut back or quit the substance or activity
• You have repeatedly tried to cut back or quit the substance or activity but have been unable to do so
• You have lied (to yourself or someone else) about the amount of time and/or money spent on this substance or activity
• You ignore the consequences or are you unable to stop using the substance or activity, even though you know the consequences
• The substance or activity has affected your family relationships or put your job, education, or career at risk
• You have committed (or considered committing) an illegal act, like stealing, embezzlement, or forgery to get the substance or money for the activity

When does a habit become an addiction?  We can all become addicted to many substances and behaviours, and many people live with addictions without issue.  However if the addiction has a negative impact on your life or on the lives of those around you, you should get help.

To be effective, that help needs to be non-judgemental, compassionate but well boundaried.  You need to be able to trust the therapist.

Addiction is evident when an obsession with something disrupts the more important things in life, like personal relationships, schooling, or jobs. People can become addicted to pretty much anything. Addiction to substances like alcohol, prescription drugs, or illegal drugs are well-known.  Behavior addictions seem to be increasing and may include addictions to the internet, cell phones, shopping, tanning, and video games. If you cannot control your behavior or need for a substance, you may be addicted. If in doubt, contact Annie.