Addiction

How it can happen

An estimated two million people in the UK have an addiction to some form of substance or activity. Addiction is a complex illness with physical and psychological symptoms, affecting not only the patient, but their family, friends and social environment too.

Addiction doesn’t stop at alcohol and drug misuse. People can become overly attached to gambling, sex, shopping, and computer games - even using the internet. These non-drug addictive behaviours are similar in that the person has a lack of control over their behaviour.

Addiction is a complex illness with physical and psychological symptoms, affecting not only the patient, but their family, friends and social environment too.

Help for Family Members

It is often the case that those who are closest to an individual with an addiction problem become depressed or feel powerless to help. They may feel angry or frustrated. Supportive help for those family members or carers can be vital for all involved if progress is to be maintained.

I can also help those families where an individual is not willing to acknowledge their problem or seek assistance for it. Guidance can be provided to enable families to help motivate the individual to accept support, or where this isn’t forthcoming, support them through this.