Addiction | Types, Symptoms & Effects

All types of addiction involve interactions with and changes in the reward systems in our brain, in particular, the dopaminergic reward system.

The reward system is a natural and important part of how the brain works, helping to motivate us to engage in life-preserving behaviours like drinking, eating, and having sex. When we do these activities, our brains release small amounts of neurotransmitters (chemical messengers), such as dopamine and endorphins (natural opioids). This action alters how neurons (brain cells) connect along the reward pathway, making it easier and easy to repeat the activity without thinking about it and leading to the formation of habits.

It can be hard to know if you or a loved one is living with addiction. Addiction can manifest in very different ways, and sometimes the signs can be hidden. Moreover, loved ones often go to great lengths to conceal their problem, making addiction even harder to spot.

If you’re concerned about your substance use or compulsive behaviours, it may be helpful to look through the following signs and symptoms. However, this list is not exhaustive; some signs may also result from conditions other than addiction. If you have any worries about addiction, you should speak with a doctor, addiction specialist, or another mental health professional for expert advice.

The signs of addiction can be behavioural, psychological, and physical. They may include:

• Trying to reduce substance use or engage less in a certain behaviour but not managing to
• Experiencing financial difficulties as a result of your cravings
• Strained relationships with family members and other loved ones
• Finding your thoughts are dominated by acquiring and using the substance or engaging in the behaviour
• Losing interest in activities you used to enjoy
• Social isolation
• Experiencing physical or psychological withdrawal symptoms when you try to stop using a substance
• Experiencing cravings for a substance or a behaviour

It’s normal for people with addiction to act secretively and try to hide their thoughts and behaviours, particularly if they are affected by some of the stigma and misconceptions attached to addiction. Some additional signs to look out for in a loved one are:

• Unexplained outings
• Drug paraphernalia
• Lying and secretive behaviour
• Changes in friend groups

Confronting a loved one about harmful habits can be hard, especially if they don’t recognise or accept their dependency. In general, having an open conversation is a good place to start. Through honest communication, you can see how you can support them and speak about the possibility of seeking professional help. Remember to listen to what they say and come from a place of love and compassion, not judgement.

You can also speak to a mental health professional about the best way forward. If necessary, they can provide expert advice and explore other options, such as interventions.

Although it takes time, you can conquer your addiction and regain control of your life with the right support, motivation and commitment to change.

Whatever the type of addiction, the causes are usually complex – and rarely rooted in the substance or behaviour itself. Addictions typically develop due to underlying issues that drive substance abuse or other compulsive behaviours. Some people even conceptualise addiction as a symptom of other conditions rather than a condition in itself.

Some individuals may use compulsive behaviours as a coping mechanism for co-occurring mental health issues such as anxiety or depression, offering a quick way to relax or escape reality. For others, substance use may constitute a way to fill a void left by neglect in childhood or other early-life adversity. Whatever your story, addressing these underlying issues is crucial for effective treatment.

Scientists and other experts have identified several risk factors that make developing an addiction more likely. Still, it’s important to recognise the complexity of addiction. Many people will experience some of these risk factors and never develop an addiction, while others may develop an addiction without exposure to any common risk factors.

Addiction is a pervasive condition that can affect your health, work, and family life. The good news is there is a way out. While addiction can be impossible to control alone, addiction rehab programmes at Linwood House offer a range of approaches and necessary detox to address the underlying causes of addiction, guiding you to life-long recovery.

Contact us today if you or a loved one may be living with addiction or a substance abuse disorder. Our compassionate team can offer understanding and confidential advice and talk you through the next steps. Reaching out for support can be hard, but it opens the door to a fulfilling life free from addiction and substance abuse.