Causes: People may initially use alcohol, cigarettes or drugs (both illegal and prescription drugs) to help them cope with emotional problems. People with low self-esteem or anxiety disorders often use drugs or alcohol to feel more confident. Peer-pressure, boredom, escapism and relaxation are other reasons why you may become dependent. Using a substance regularly can cause a change in brain chemistry, so withdrawal symptoms -as well as a compulsive need for the substance- may occur when you try to stop. You might feel as though you cannot cope, go to work, meet friends or even get through the day without the substance. 

Effects: As well as the physical side-effects of addiction, abuse of drugs and alcohol can cause many emotional disorders and mental health problems.

Addiction to alcohol increases your risk of epilepsy, certain cancers, pancreatitis and cirrhosis of the liver.

Nicotine raises blood pressure, increases the risk of heart disease, strokes and certain cancers and causes respiratory disease.  

Solutions: Tackle the underlying problems that made you turn to drugs and alcohol in the first place.

Regain power; remind yourself that you are in control.

Involve your family in the recovery process and use their support.

Withdrawal from alcohol and opioids may need rehabilitation in a detoxification unit.

Write down the reasons why you want to give up.

Take up new habits like sport, reading or music. 

 

Get help...