Addictions

Addictions are complex conditions in which sufferers engage compulsively in stimuli which deliver a reward, despite negative consequences. These rewarding stimuli commonly include substances, such as drugs or alcohol, or behavioural addictions, such as gambling, internet, or porn.

In 2022, an analysis by The National Institute of Health estimated the worldwide prevalence of substance-misuse disorders at 2.2%. Professionals disagree over whether behavioural addictions should be classified as formal mental health disorders, but there is no doubt that they are widespread: one review and meta-analysis (Alimoradi et al., 2022) found that during the pandemic, smartphone addiction was estimated to be around 30.7%.

Symptoms vary dependent on the problem behaviour or substance, but often encompass intense cravings, withdrawals if engagement is prevented, and a ‘priority shift’, in which the addiction is valued over other key aspects of life. Other mental health difficulties can be associated, and substance misuse in particular can contribute to physical health concerns.

Treatment is tailored to the type of addiction and the individual, but often includes therapy and counselling, medication, and supported reduction in engagement. Support groups such as Alcoholics and Narcotics Anonymous are also popular, providing close peer support. Often, those with addiction will need to commit to total abstinence from the substance or behaviour to avoid relapse.

Further information and resources

• NHS: Addiction
• Psychology Today explainer
• UK Addiction Treatment (UKAT)

Recommended books

• "The Unexpected Joy of Being Sober: THE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER" by Catherine Gray - A book exploring the positives of giving up alcohol, alongside offering practical resources, backed up by research.
• "In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts: Close Encounters with Addiction" by Gabor Maté - An expert on the psychology of addiction, Maté writes a compassionate account of addiction broadly. He explores how various factors including society, personal history and experience, and brain chemistry can interplay to cause some individuals to fall into the trap of addiction.
• "Dopamine Nation: Why our Addiction to Pleasure is Causing us Pain" by Dr Anna Lembke - Lembke demonstrates how constantly seeking rewards or highs, of various forms, leads sooner or later to suffering. She emphasises the importance of contentment and connectedness in achieving a healthy balance in our relationship with dopamine.

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