Dealing with addiction
What is it?
There are two types of addictions. One is addiction to substances, like alcohol, nicotine or drugs. This happens when your body gets used to the substance, and you need more to feel the same effect. The other type is addiction to certain behaviours, like gaming, shopping, gambling or sex. This happens when you want to feel the thrill or excitement again.
How do you recognise addictive behaviour?
If you are addicted, you exhibit addictive behaviour:
- You are constantly using the substance to achieve a certain effect;
- Desire (craving or sigh) creates a pattern;
- This pattern is difficult or even impossible to break;
- Your daily life suffers from it.
With mental dependence, you want the drug so badly that it is all you can think about. It feels like you cannot live without it.
With physical dependence, your body is used to the drug. If you stop using it, your body reacts. You might feel sick, with symptoms like fever, nausea, headaches or trouble sleeping. These are called withdrawal symptoms.
Causes of addiction
If your parents have an addiction, it can increase your own risk. But other things also play a role like feeling very low with signs of depression, money stress, or problems with your studies. Some people use drugs or other things to push away these bad feelings. If this sounds familiar, you're not alone, and help is available.
What can you do?
Admitting you have an addiction can be very hard. Many people feel ashamed and find it difficult to ask for help. But addiction can be treated — and getting help is nothing to be ashamed of. Talk to your doctor (GP). They can help you find the right support.
Healthcare in the Netherlands