What is Addiction?
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. The strain of managing an addiction can seriously damage your work life and relationships. In the case of substance misuse (for example, drugs and alcohol), an addiction can have serious psychological and physical effects.
Alcohol Addiction
Realising you have a problem with alcohol is the first big step to getting help.
You may need help if:
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you often feel the need to have a drink
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you get into trouble because of your drinking
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other people warn you about how much you're drinking
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you think your drinking is causing you problems
A good place to start is with your GP. Try to be accurate and honest about how much you drink and any problems it may be causing you.
Support for alcohol Addiction
Drug Addiction
If you need treatment for drug addiction, you're entitled to NHS care in the same way as anyone else who has a health problem. With the right help and support, it's possible for you to get drug free and stay that way.
Your GP is a good place to start. They can discuss your problems with you and get you into treatment. They may offer you treatment at the practice or refer you to your local drug service. If you're not comfortable talking to your GP, you can approach your local drug treatment service yourself.
Where to get support for drugs
Gambling
Being a compulsive gambler can harm your health and relationships and leave you in serious debt. If you have a problem with gambling and you'd like to stop, support and treatment is available.
Are you a problem gambler? Try this questionnaire:
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Do you bet more than you can afford to lose?
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Do you need to gamble with larger amounts of money to get the same feeling?
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Have you tried to win back money you have lost (chasing losses)?
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Have you borrowed money or sold anything to get money to gamble?
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Have you wondered whether you have a problem with gambling?
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Has your gambling caused you any health problems, including feelings of stress or anxiety?
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Have other people criticised your betting or told you that you had a gambling problem (regardless of whether or not you thought it was true)?
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Has your gambling caused any financial problems for you or your household?
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Have you ever felt guilty about the way you gamble or what happens when you gamble?
Score 0 for each time you answer "never"
Score 1 for each time you answer "sometimes"
Score 2 for each time you answer "most of the time"
Score 3 for each time you answer "almost always"
If your total score is 8 or higher, you may be a problem gambler.
Support available for gambling
Smoking
Stopping smoking is the single best thing you can do for your health.
Support for stopping smoking
Click here for your personal quit plan
Click here to find your local stop smoking support service