Written by:

Nuno Albuquerque – Former UKAT Counsellor

Medically Reviewed by:

Dr Mateen Durrani – MBBS, DPM, MSc, BCPsych

Last Updated:

January 8th, 2025

Drug Addiction | Types, Symptoms & Effects

Drug addiction has the power to dominate your life and interfere with your relationships, work and your physical and mental health. The impact of drug addiction is felt in communities all over the world, not least in the UK, where according to the Office of National Statistics, drugs caused 4,859 deaths in 2021 alone. Luckily, professional, compassionate help is available and if you are struggling with drug addiction, Linwood House can help you overcome this terrible condition and take back control of your life.

What is drug addiction?

Drug addiction is when you compulsively seek and use drugs despite negative consequences for yourself or your loved ones. It can affect people from all walks of life, regardless of age, gender or social status. When you are addicted to drugs, it can cause you to prioritise obtaining and using drugs over anything else, causing major damage in every area of your life.

Common drug addictions include:

Amphetamine addiction

While amphetamines may be perceived as harmless substances, the reality is that regular use can lead to addiction and result in cardiovascular problems, mental health issues, and an increased risk of severe psychological disorders. Click the button below to learn more.

Amphetamine addiction →

Cannabis addiction

While cannabis (also referred to as marijuana) may be perceived as a harmless substance, the reality is that regular use can lead to addiction and result in respiratory problems, memory deficits and an increased risk of psychosis. Click the button below to learn more about cannabis addiction.

Cannabis addiction →

Cocaine addiction

Cocaine is one of the most widely-used illegal drugs. This powerful stimulant is highly physically and psychologically addictive with 840 deaths resulting from cocaine in the UK in 2021 (an all-time high). Click the button below if you would like to learn more about cocaine addiction.

Cocaine addiction →

Crack cocaine addiction

Crack cocaine addiction is a severe condition involving compulsive use despite harmful effects. It can lead to major cardiovascular and mental health issues, and a higher risk of psychological disorders. The addiction often causes significant personal and social consequences, making professional treatment essential.

Crack cocaine addiction →

Ecstasy addiction

Despite not being physically addictive, people can become dependent psychologically on ecstasy, or MDMA. Chronic use can have serious effects including structural changes in the brain, dental issues and damage to the liver, kidneys and cardiovascular system. Click the button below if you would like to learn more.

Ecstasy addiction →

GBL addiction

GBL addiction involves compulsive use of gamma-butyrolactone despite severe consequences. It can cause serious health issues like respiratory depression, unconsciousness, and dependence. The addiction leads to significant personal and social problems, requiring professional treatment for effective recovery.

GBL addiction →

GHB addiction

GHB addiction involves regular/compulsive use of gamma-hydroxybutyrate, which can lead to severe health issues such as respiratory depression, unconsciousness, and dependence. This addiction causes a range of significant personal and social problems.

GHB addiction →

Heroin addiction

This is an incredibly harmful form of drug addiction which sadly affects thousands of people in the UK. Heroin is extremely physically and psychologically addictive, can easily cause fatal overdose and produces intense withdrawal symptoms when users attempt to stop without support.

Heroin addiction →

Meth addiction

Methamphetamine, also known as crystal meth, is a powerful stimulant drug that can lead to addiction with regular use and can cause a range of physical and psychological health issues such as heart problems, dental decay and depression. Click the button below to learn more.

Meth addiction →

Monkey dust addiction

Monkey dust addiction involves compulsive use of the synthetic drug, leading to severe health issues like paranoia, hallucinations, and violent behavior. This addiction results in significant personal and social problems, necessitating professional treatment for effective recovery and to prevent further harm.

Monkey dust addiction →

Steroid addiction

Steroid addiction involves compulsive use of anabolic steroids, leading to severe health issues like liver damage, heart problems, and hormonal imbalances. This addiction causes significant personal, physical, and social problems, making professional treatment essential for effective recovery. Click on the button below if you would like to learn more.

Steroid addiction →

What causes drug addiction?

While drug addiction does not care who you are or where you’re from, certain people might be more prone to addiction due to genetic, environmental or psychological factors.

Our environments play a key role in our development and how we see the world. People raised in situations where they’re exposed to drug use are often more likely to experiment with illegal drugs. Additionally, experiencing trauma, social isolation and stress can increase the risk of developing harmful coping mechanisms such as drug use.

Psychological factors such as mental illness can also be a contributing factor to drug addiction. For example, people may self-medicate with illegal substances to cope with difficult emotions or experiences brought on by their condition which can lead to a self-perpetuating cycle of addiction.

Genetics can also contribute to drug addiction as certain genes can influence the way the brain responds to drugs. This may render some people more vulnerable to the rewarding effects of substances and consequently make them more prone to developing a drug addiction.

What are the signs of drug addiction

There are various signs of drug addiction to look out for in yourself and others, including:

Losing interest in previously enjoyed activities or hobbies which are replaced with drug use
Personal, family, social or work responsibilities may being neglected due to a preoccupation with with obtaining, using and recovering from drugs
Isolating oneself from family and friends
Engaging in risky or criminal behaviour that would never be considered when sober
Lying to loved ones about drug use
Stealing from loved ones to fuel drug addiction, lie, or even steal from loved ones.
Attempting to stop drug use but not being able to
Experiencing withdrawal symptoms – such as anxiety, irritation or depression, among others – when unable to access or use drugs
Needing and taking larger amounts of the drug over time to experience the same effect
Choosing to spend money on drugs rather than on essential expenses, such as paying the rent or buying food
Taking drugs on a daily basis, or as a means to feel ‘normal’

If you notice any of these symptoms of drug addiction in yourself or someone you know, it may be time to seek professional help.

How can Linwood House help with drug addiction?

Linwood House understands that everyone experiences drug addiction differently which is why our healthcare professionals will first assess your physical, mental and emotional health needs. This initial evaluation of your medical history and drug use and medical history can help us create a bespoke drug detox programme to address the physical aspect of your drug addiction.

After that you will begin a range of therapies as part of our drug rehab programmes in our safe and stable recovery centre. With around-the-clock care and the company of others going through the same process, you will gain vital insight into your negative behavioural patterns and will be able to develop new healthier habits.

Anyone battling with drug addiction also requires ongoing support which is why our free aftercare programme is available for anyone who has stayed Linwood House for three weeks or more.

How can I help a loved one who Is a victim of drug addiction?

The best way to help a loved one is by supporting their recovery and being understanding of what they are going through.

This may involve:

Talking to your loved one about your concerns and how their drug addiction affects you
Learning about drug addiction and what help is available for it and encourage a loved one to seek help
Avoiding enabling behaviours by setting boundaries and encouraging them to address their drug addiction.
Attending family therapy and visiting a loved one during their recovery
Providing a safe, sober and healthy home environment which can encourage sobriety and set an example of a possible life without substances

How can I get help for drug addiction?

If you need help for drug addiction, the first step is always to reach out and ask for it. Contact our team today and we can provide you with all the information you need about drug addiction and the treatment options available at Linwood House. We also provide support for family members of a loved one struggling with addiction which can help guide them through your recovery journey.

Frequently asked questions

Are drug addiction and drug abuse the same thing?

No, drug addiction and drug abuse are not the same. Drug abuse involves using a substance inappropriately or excessively, while drug addiction is a chronic condition characterised by compulsive drug-seeking and loss of control. Abusing a drug can lead to drug addiction but personal circumstances, family history and general health can also influence a person’s susceptibility to addiction.

If a pregnant woman abuses drugs, does it affect the foetus?

Yes, drug abuse during pregnancy can harm the foetus, leading to complications such as premature birth, low birth weight, developmental issues, and withdrawal symptoms after birth.

What is the most common drug addiction in the UK?

The most common drug addiction in the UK is cannabis, followed by cocaine and opiates such as heroin.

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