Addictions
An addiction is a lack of control in using something, to the point that it may be harmful. Common addictions include alcohol, drugs, nicotine, and gambling. To be addicted to something means to be dependent on it. Without it the body experiences withdrawal. The body becomes more tolerant the more something is used. Larger and more frequent amounts are needed to achieve the same high effect. In the UK, 202,000 people are in treatment for drug addictions (NTA).
Symptoms
The symptoms of an addiction include anxiety, financial problems, isolation, a sense of powerlessness, personal relationship problems, remorse, shame, and work relationship problems. A person with an addiction is often in denial, and may only accept they have an addiction when they reach an impassable crisis. When they accept and receive appropriate help, they can begin to address the problems the addiction temporarily helped them to avoid.
Causes
The causes of addictions are believed to include adolescence issues, childhood issues, depression, identity issues, obsessiveness, self-esteem issues, and sexual abuse. Poverty, unemployment, lack of education, and stress problems are also believed to be causes of addictions. If you are concerned about a problem do not diagnose yourself. Always consult your GP or a therapist who is qualified to both diagnose the issue and help you work through it.