Addiction

Addiction refers to a difficulty in controlling certain repetitive behaviours to the extent that they have harmful consequences. They are the result of powerful compulsions to use and do certain things excessively, often out of a need to escape from upsetting emotions or situations. These compulsions can trigger a self-perpetuating process, which can cause pain and suffering not only for those addicted, but also for their friends and family.

Addictions can develop from many activities, including drinking alcohol, taking drugs, eating, gambling, having sex and using the internet. Often addictions begin as a result of how these activities make people feel emotionally and physically. These feelings can be pleasurable – triggering a powerful urge to carry out the activity again to recreate this ‘high’. This can develop into a repetitive cycle that becomes very hard to break.
There is a difference between an addiction and a habit. An addiction is where the sufferer is dependent on it for coping with daily life.

Understanding what causes addiction, for example family history, mental health issues, early use of substances such as drugs or alcohol, social environment, childhood trauma or stress can be some of the factors.

The workshops will also enable sufferers to understand the signs and symptoms of addiction. The group will enable sufferers to speak about their addiction which enables them to think, feel and act and discussing this may enable the sufferers to find a new way to think feel and cope with their situation.