What is addiction?

Addiction is the repeated use of a substance or an activity, even though it may be harmful.

People can become addicted to many different things. Common addictions are:

• drugs
• alcohol
• cigarettes
• gambling

Addiction can badly affect your life and hurt the people around you. But it’s possible to overcome addiction and reduce the harm to you and others.

Deciding to make a change

Only you can decide to overcome an addiction. Quitting is a gradual process — it often takes several attempts.

When breaking an addiction, you may have withdrawal symptoms, including:

• tiredness
• mood changes
• insomnia
• cravings
• aches and pains

These can be unpleasant and sometimes life-threatening. Withdrawal symptoms can be challenging. But don’t give up hope if you find things difficult. Quitting is easier if you:

• have support
• set goals
• are prepared for challenges

Reaching out for support

Talk to your doctor, mental health professional, counsellor or drug and alcohol service about your decision to quit. Be honest about your situation. Support from your friends or family members can also help.

Is there treatment for addiction?

Many addiction treatments and services are available, including:

• withdrawal, detoxification and addiction rehabilitation
• medicines, which can reduce cravings
• counselling
• peer support, including Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous and SMART Recovery Australia
• support for your family and carers

If you are a carer, carers associations in your state or territory can provide counselling. They can also help to organise respite care. 

Healthy ways to cope with stress

Some people take drugs, use alcohol or other things because they think it helps them cope with stress. But it can lead to an addiction, which can add to your stress.

When trying to break an addiction, withdrawal symptoms can also be stressful.

There are healthy ways to cope with stress, such as:

• relaxation through meditation and yoga
• exercise
• being with friends
• planning ahead and having routines
• eating healthily
• sleeping well

A counsellor can give you relaxation strategies, such as:

• deep, controlled breathing
• ways to relax your muscles
• visualising a safe place

Triggers, cravings and staying in control

Knowing your triggers can help you avoid them. Avoiding your triggers can help you stay in control and prevent relapse.

You can’t avoid all triggers, so a plan is important to manage your cravings. A counsellor can help you prepare a plan to cope with cravings.

The stress relief strategies mentioned above can also help distract you and manage cravings.

Don’t let a relapse stop you achieving your goals

People with addictions commonly relapse. This is part of the withdrawal process. It is okay to acknowledge any negative feelings you may have after a relapse. However, remember that breaking an addiction often takes more than one attempt. Keep reminding yourself why you are trying to quit.

Building a meaningful life without addiction

There are things you can do to help you stay addiction free.

• Do things that you enjoy and that mean a lot to you.
• Set goals and have things to look forward to.

It can help to stay connected to positive people who are recovering from addiction, through support groups.