Addiction
For teenagers
Addictions are hard to admit to having but taking the first steps to change is definitely worth it. No matter how hopeless it seems, recovery is possible once you make a commitment to alter thoughts and behaviours associated with a substance or behaviour that you are misusing.
The first step is the hardest and that is about admitting you have a problem. The second is making yourself a promise that you will endeavour to make a change, bit by bit. You may have lots of doubts but don’t let them put you off, uncertainty is normal. Focus instead on how you will benefit and support yourself to move towards an addiction-free life.
What is an addiction?
An addiction has the following features:
- Lack of control – there is a psychological and physical component – it’s hard to stop
- Dependence – you rely on the substance or the activity. It’s compulsive and repetitive
- Tolerance – you become more used to the effects and need to use the substance or carry out the activity to higher levels
- Withdrawal – trying to come off the substance or activity creates a psychological and/or physical syndrome which has negative effects on the person
Visit our Further Advice page for details of other organisations that can help.
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