About Addiction
Addiction is a comprehensive and multi-layered condition that varies from person to person. While many people claim they have no dependencies, most of us have minor or significant habits that could be classified as addictive behaviours — from a harmless coffee dependency to serious substance abuse.
In general terms, addiction refers to the uncontrolled pursuit of a substance or behaviour that continues despite physical, psychological, and social consequences — an inability to stop despite the desire to do so, and a complete loss of control over the impulse to engage in the activity.
Types of Addiction
Addiction types can be grouped into two main categories: substance addiction and behavioural addiction.
Substance Addiction
Substance addiction is characterised by continued use despite physical, psychological, and social harm, with increasing dosage and frequency over time. A key indicator is the emergence of withdrawal symptoms when the substance is unavailable.
Risk factors include environmental influences, social resources, medical history, psychological characteristics, genetic predisposition, and proximity to substances. Common substances include:
- Alcohol
- Tobacco
- Caffeine
- Cannabis
- Prescription drugs (Ritalin, Xanax, etc.)
- Hallucinogens (LSD, etc.)
- Stimulants (Cocaine, Amphetamine, Ecstasy, etc.)
- Opioids (Morphine, Heroin, etc.)
Behavioural Addictions
Behavioural addictions are not linked to a physical substance but rather to behaviour patterns. They pose physical health risks alongside psychological and social problems. Common behavioural addictions include:
- Food addiction
- Screen (gaming) addiction
- Compulsive sexual behaviour
- Sex addiction
- Gambling addiction
- Shopping addiction
Signs of Addiction
While symptoms vary based on the substance or behaviour, common indicators include:
Repetitive behaviours:
Despite awareness of harm and repeated attempts to quit, the individual finds themselves returning to the substance or behaviour in a vicious cycle.
Increased tolerance:
Over time, the individual develops tolerance, requiring progressively larger amounts or more intense engagement to achieve the same effect.
Withdrawal symptoms:
When unable to access the substance, individuals experience physical and emotional withdrawal symptoms including sweating, nausea, excessive sleepiness, and anxiety.
Cognitive craving:
Addicted individuals experience persistent mental preoccupation with the substance or behaviour, spending significant time planning and anticipating their next use.
Health problems:
Both substance and behavioural addictions inevitably lead to psychological and physical health issues. Early diagnosis and professional online therapy support can help individuals overcome these challenges.
Addiction Treatment
The most critical component of addiction treatment is the individual's active participation in the process. Treatment plans are personalised based on addiction type, co-occurring disorders, social resources, and duration of use.
The initial step involves a medically supervised detoxification process, where dosage is gradually reduced while managing both physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms.
The therapeutic process aims to help individuals understand themselves better, develop coping strategies, identify the root causes of their addiction, prevent relapse, and address any co-occurring psychological conditions.
Addiction and Online Therapy
Online therapy offers an accessible and effective alternative for addiction treatment, particularly valuable for urgent situations. Through online sessions with a qualified psychologist, individuals receive a tailored treatment plan that addresses their specific circumstances and needs.