what is addiction?

medical professionals may consider the following ten aspects to diagnose:

1. you use a substance more frequently or use it for longer than you intended (for instance, continued use of prescribed pain medication after recovery)
2. you feel the inability to stop your substance abuse even if you want to
3. you feel intense cravings, desires or urges to use the substance and feel a lack of self-control
4. you notice an increased consumption of the substance to feel the desired effect due to your tolerance
5. you feel intense withdrawal symptoms when you're not using the substance (for instance, you develop substance dependence and feel uneasy when you don't use it)
6. it takes you much longer to recover after every use
7. you are neglecting responsibilities or relationships due to your substance use
8. you are disengaging from valued activities like socialising or individual hobbies
9. you put yourself in dangerous situations to obtain the substance
10. you have continued the use of a substance despite the difficulties it's causing

If you've noticed these signs in yourself and feel worried, we have further guidance for getting help here.

food addiction

Food addiction is when the signals of fullness or satisfaction are misconstrued as reward signals to your brain when consuming highly palatable food and alcohol-free drinks (like fizzy juice). As a result, you may continue to consume this specific product regularly when you aren't hungry or thirsty.

gambling addiction

A gambling addiction develops when you can't control your urge to gamble, leading to damaging behaviours that affect your life or others around you. With the ease and accessibility of online gambling, it’s now become even more prevalent and hidden. Sports betting, casino games, virtual slot machines and even the lottery are just a few examples of activities that may lead to gambling addictions.

gaming addiction

Playing video, PC, or console games might be your escape from the real world and the pressures surrounding you. However, this may become a harmful addiction if your gaming habits begin affecting relationships, work, school, or your health (like sleep patterns).

internet addiction or social media addiction

By design, the internet and social apps are moreish, inviting you to click or scroll just that little longer. However, the constant stimulation and instant gratification these platforms provide could change your brain's chemistry, resulting in addictive behaviour.

This may also become a gateway to other behavioural addictions like gambling or shopping. The continual stream of notifications and updates can create a sense of urgency, subconsciously encouraging you to act on impulse.

shopping addiction

A little shopping spree to treat yourself can be an enjoyable activity. So much so, that it’s been coined as "retail therapy." However, when you feel the compulsion to avoid your feelings, like anxiety or stress, by shopping instead, this may be a sign you have an addiction. If this significantly impacts your life, finances, or relationships, we recommend seeking support from a trusted source or person.

sex addiction

This term describes a condition where someone has an intense and compulsive need to engage in sexual activities, often to the point where it interferes with their daily life and relationships. Sex addictions may include pornography use, masturbation, having multiple sexual partners, or engaging in risky sexual behaviour.

It's important to understand that sex addiction is a real and recognised mental health condition that could significantly impact your life.

stealing addiction

An addiction to stealing, also known as Kleptomania, is an impulse control disorder. If you suffer from this, you may have difficulty resisting the temptation or powerful urge to steal items you generally don't need. This often involves affordable or low-value items because you are addicted to the adrenaline rush of the activity.