What is Addiction?

Being addicted to something means that you have an unhealthy attachment to it—you crave it, and you will do anything to get it again. You can be addicted to a hard drug like cocaine or meth, but you can also be addicted to coffee or binge watching a certain reality TV show. When we talk about addiction on You Matter, we’re really focusing on illicit drugs and alcohol.

Drug addiction can majorly mess with physical and mental health, screw up your relationships, and even land you in jail. Substance abuse is a complex disease and once you become addicted quitting can be very difficult on your own.

Alcohol addiction is particularly tricky because drinking, even binge drinking, is socially acceptable. Some people are able to drink a few times a week without becoming addicted while others feel an uncontrollable urge to get drunk after just a sip. Control is the important thing here. If you feel like you have no control over your drinking, you may be an alcoholic.

Is it normal?

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service, about 21% of all young adults (that’s people between the ages of 18-25) use illicit drugs. Chances are good that you know someone who has experimented with drugs, if you haven’t tried them yourself. Because drug and alcohol abuse is a serious risk factor for suicide, it’s important to get help if you are addicted.

 

What are the warning signs?

  • Having intense to use the drug regularly — this can be daily or even several times a day
  • Needing more of the drug to get the same buzz or high
  • Making sure that always have a stash
  • Spending money on the drug, even though you can’t afford it
  • Blowing off obligations and school or work responsibilities
  • Doing things to get the drug that you normally wouldn’t do, like stealing
  • Driving or doing other risky activities when you’re under the influence
  • Spending more and more time, money and energy on the drug
  • Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when stopping ‘cold turkey’

Read about warning signs for specific drug addictions. 

How can I get help? 

As this video explains, quitting drugs on your own can be really hard. These resources can help.

Anytime you are in crisis you can call or chat with the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.

If you want to get connected to addiction treatment centers, use the Substance Abuse Treatment Facility Locator or call 1-800-662-4357.

Though it’s not for everyone, Alcoholics Anonymous has support groups for people struggling with many different types of addiction.

 

 

Comments

9
  • Smitha160

    Howdy! Would you mind if I share your blog with my twitter group? Theres lots of people that I believe would really enjoy your content. Please let me know. Thanks ddggabdbabddfkee

    Posted on

    • You Matter

      Thank you for reaching out to our community and sharing this resource. Don’t forget to also spread the word about our phone number: 1-800-273-TALK (8255). We’re here for those struggling through any situation.

      Posted on

  • Kyle

    Kyle Kyle

    Reply Author

    I’m addicted to nicotine. It’s been tearing me apart mentally. I seem to get an upset stomach and very irritable and moody when I’m trying to stop. I would like to find a way to ease off over time, but my mother is in very bad shape from cigarettes and I feel like I need to take action now before I end up the same from my addiction.

    Posted on

    • Vibrant Communications

      Kyle, we’re glad you’re reaching out for help. Feel free to call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) so that you can find out what resources are available in your area to help you stop smoking. Your call is routed to the Lifeline center closest to your area code. The local crisis center may have resources that you can take advantage of.

      Posted on

  • Ian

    Ian Ian

    Reply Author

    I have been addicted to p*rn. I have been caught 2 times by my school monitoring my school laptop. I feel suicidal when I see I got caught.

    Posted on

    • Vibrant Communications

      Hello Ian, It sounds like you are having a really difficult time coping. If you need a little extra emotional support, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). The call is free and confidential, and crisis workers are available 24/7 to assist you.

      Posted on

  • basketball stars

    Addiction is described as a loss of control over doing, taking, or using anything to the point that it may be hazardous to you. Your post is very useful.

    Posted on

  • basketball stars

    A very thorough article about addiction, I am in the same situation, I will try to quit.

    Posted on

  • basketball stars

    I am also addicted to games and quite lazy to study, I was trying to get some tips to focus on studying for the exam.

    Posted on