Addictions FAQs
What is an addiction?
Addiction doesn’t suddenly happen overnight. It builds up over time and continues despite the heartache and consequences it has not only in the person’s life, but also the lives of those around them. An addiction describes the relationship a person reaches with a substance (e.g. alcohol / drugs) or behaviour (e.g. gambling / sexual compulsivity) over which they have lost control and become physically and psychologically dependant
How can I tell if I’m addicted or becoming addicted?
There are many warning signs for this – you just need to be open minded and listen to yourself and others. Here are some of them:
You may be suffering physical withdrawal symptoms when you don’t drink or take drugs, e.g. shaking hands, sweating, or “flu” like symptoms, loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping.
If you find yourself in situations where alcohol or drugs are not available, you may become irritable or find an excuse to leave early.
People close to you, or work colleagues, are expressing concern over your drinking, drug taking or gambling. This may cause arguments and you become angry and defensive.
You need to use more alcohol or drugs to get the same high – this means your body is building a tolerance.
Missing days at work as a result of alcohol or drug consumption.
Drinking or taking drugs become more important than family or friends.
If you are starting to have guilt, shame and / or secrecy around what you are doing in terms of alcohol, drugs, gambling or sexual compulsivity.
When should I seek help?
This is a difficult step as a lot of people who have developed, or are developing an addiction, are often in denial that there is a problem. If you answered yes to any of the above, then this indicates that there is an established or developing addiction and now is the time to seek help.
What if I am almost ready, but not just yet?
This translates as “Ok, there could be a problem, but I don’t want to stop yet!” The good news here is that this is a step beyond not accepting that there is something wrong, and is a good time to explore what your options for help are. At Cygnet Health care, we see many people for free confidential assessments at this stage.
What else can I do?
The fact that you are reading this says you have a concern around addiction. Continue to do what you are doing and look for help! Visit your GP – Call Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous or call us to arrange an appointment for a free confidential assessment.
