What is Addiction?
Addiction to drugs or alcohol is an unhealthy relationship where you use more of the substance than you would like to use and continue to use despite the negative consequences. A very realistic perspective of heroin addiction is portrayed in the brilliant 1996 Film with Ewan McGregor Trainspotting. However this is just one image of drug addiction.
Alcohol dependence is often overlooked as an addiction due to it being legal and socially acceptable, something most of us indulge in from time to time. According to a survey of adults who have used one or more illicit drugs within the last year Cannabis is the drug most likely to be used followed by powder cocaine, but it seems all the attention and treatment is focused on opiates and it is important to consider the other side of the addiction coin.
Signs & Symptoms of Addiction
The medical
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2) Withdrawal: Experiencing physical or emotional withdrawals. Shakes, sweats, low moods, irritable.
3) Limited Control: Using more than you intended over increased periods of time.
4) Desire to cut down: Attempts to cut down or stop not being successful.
5) Significant time or energy spent using: A great deal of time spent thinking about using, getting, planning and concealing your drug or alcohol use.
6) Neglected activities: Work, family or recreational activities are neglected to use drugs or alcohol.
7) Negative Consequences: Physical or mental health is adversely effected but still continue to use.
Who is effected by addiction?
It is estimated that around 10% of any population is addicted to drugs or alcohol. Addiction is more common than diabetes and crosses all socioeconomic boundaries teachers, plumbers and CEO's suffer with addiction it is not just limited to poorer or less educated parts of society there is a growing number of professionals in full time employment who are juggling a full time career with their hidden