Addictions

When it comes to "Addiction", often the first thing that comes to mind are drugs and/or alcohol. However, there are many different types of addictions. Addiction can be either to a substance, or indeed, to a behaviour. From a clinical viewpoint, addiction is a diagnosable mental health and/or physical health issue. It is considered a disease of brain-reward, motivation-memory and related mental circuitry by the medical profession, and although it involves some behavioral elements which can be coached, professional discretion is needed. Certainly, chronic or severe cases should be referred to the relevant health professional, such as a clinical psychologist, medical practitioner or addiction counsellor. Addiction is characterized by the inability to consistently abstain, impairment in behavioral control, craving, diminished recognition of significant problems with one's behaviors and interpersonal relationships, and a dysfunctional emotional response. Like other chronic diseases, addiction often involves cycles of relapse and remission. Without treatment or engagement in recovery activities, addiction is progressive and can result in disability or premature death. It is strongly advised that any client presenting with chronic or severe addiction-type behaviour be coached in self-awareness of their addiction and referred to the relevant professional as soon as possible.