(Updated 06/04/2023)
What is an Addiction?
Addiction is defined as not having control over doing, taking or using something to the point where it could be harmful to you.Addiction is most commonly associated with gambling, drugs, alcohol and nicotine, but it’s possible to be addicted to just about anything, including:
- work – some people are obsessed with their work to the extent that they become physically exhausted; if your relationship, family and social life are affected and you never take holidays, you may be addicted to work
- internet – as computer and mobile phone use has increased, so too have computer and internet addictions; people may spend hours each day and night surfing the internet or gaming while neglecting other aspects of their lives
- solvents – volatile substance abuse is when you inhale substances such as glue, aerosols, petrol or lighter fuel to give you a feeling of intoxication
- shopping – shopping becomes an addiction when you buy things you don’t need or want to achieve a buzz; this is quickly followed by feelings of guilt, shame or despair
What causes addictions?There are lots of reasons why addictions begin. In the case of drugs, alcohol and nicotine, these substances affect the way you feel, both physically and mentally. These feelings can be enjoyable and create a powerful urge to use the substances again.Gambling may result in a similar mental “high” after a win, followed by a strong urge to try again and recreate that feeling. This can develop into a habit that becomes very hard to stop.
Being addicted to something means that not having it causes withdrawal symptoms, or a “come down”. Because this can be unpleasant, it’s easier to carry on having or doing what you crave, and so the cycle continues.
Often, an addiction gets out of control because you need more and more to satisfy a craving and achieve the “high”.
How addictions can affect you:The strain of managing an addiction can seriously damage your work life and relationships. In the case of substance misuse (for example, drugs and alcohol), an addiction can have serious psychological and physical effects.Some studies suggest addiction is genetic, but environmental factors, such as being around other people with addictions, are also thought to increase the risk.
An addiction can be a way of blocking out difficult issues. Unemployment and poverty can trigger addiction, along with stress and emotional or professional pressure.
Getting help for addictions:Addiction is a treatable condition. Whatever the addiction, there are lots of ways you can seek help. You could see your GP for advice or contact an organisation that specialises in helping people with addictions.You can use the following online directories to find addiction treatment services in your area:
The following links have more information about the treatment, support and advice available for dealing with:
To speak to someone anonymously about any type of addiction, you can call the Samaritans free on 116 123.
For an up to date list of support services available please visit the Isle Find It Directory of Services
Inclusion IOW:
Inclusion IOW now provide the island’s drug and alcohol service. They have been working on the island for many years providing drug and alcohol services with HMP Isle of Wight.
Inclusion works to continue to build a safe, effective and resilient service and are determined to provide the best service for the residents of the Isle of Wight. As would always be the case an alcohol related medical emergency would require referral directly to A&E by the patient and their GP or ambulance service.
If you would like to make a referral or have any questions or queries please do not hesitate to contact the service.
Inclusion offer a free and confidential service to residents on the Isle of Wight. If you want help with your own use and are aged 25 and over please contact Inclusion Isle of Wight on 01983 526654
If you want help with your own use and you are aged 24 and under please contact #InclusionInspire on 01983 526654
If you are affected by someone else’s use please contact the specialist family and carer support service on 01983 526654
If you need support when Inclusion are closed contact our out of hours helpline on 0300 330 2001
