The dictionary defines is this way:
Addicted – adjective:
to be physically, mentally or emotionally dependant on a particular substance or activity.
Put simply, if a certain activity or habit has started to dominate your life, and you feel like it controls you, not the other way around, then it’s likely that you have an addiction.Addicts are just drug users and alcoholics, right?
This is a common misconception, but a person can become addicted to a range of things, including gambling, shopping, sex, food, internet, work or pornography.
Addictions can be formed when a certain substance, or activity is used to escape the problems and pressures of every day life. Temporary escape may be provided, but then the need for escape becomes greater, and increasing quantities are needed to achieve relief.
Addicts experience withdrawal symptoms if they are deprived from their substance or activity for a prolonged period of time.
Did you know?
There are approximately 2 million people in the UK suffering from an addiction
So How do I Know if I’m an Addict?
There is no one answer to this question. There are many tests online that claim to measure your level of addiction. Many are aimed specifically at alcohol, drugs or another specific vice.
One website just asks 2 questions – do YOU believe you have an addiction? And are you really committed to recovery? That may be all there is to accepting and conquering your addiction.
Other websites include questions similar to the following (though these questions are aimed at drug users, most can be applied to any addiction) :
Have you ever lied about how often or how much you use?
How much time do you spend thinking about drugs?
Do you ever drink or use drugs in the morning?
Have you ever tried to stop for a week but only managed a couple of days?
Do you plan your day around your habit?
Do you continue to use despite negative consequences?
