Addiction is most commonly associated with gambling, drugs, alcohol, and smoking, 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
• sex – sex addiction is when your sexual behaviour feels out of control, is causing you or others distress, or is affecting your life and relationships.

These resources provide help and support for addiction, including drug and gambling addictions:

• Self-help workbook and diary (GMMH Achieve Drug and Alcohol Recovery Service)
• A family concern (GMMH Achieve Drug and Alcohol Recovery Service)
• Addiction – What is it? (nhs.uk)
• Drug addiction – Getting help (nhs.uk)
• Heroin addiction – Getting help (nhs.uk)
• Cocaine addiction – Getting help (nhs.uk)
• Advice for families of people who use drugs (nhs.uk)
• Help for problems with gambling (nhs.uk)

Please note:

Completion certificates are not issued for self-help resources. However, if you need a certificate, please contact the Recovery Academy.