ADDICTION IS COMMON IN AUSTRALIAN SOCIETY AND CAN COME IN MANY GUISES. THEY CAN TAKE A SERIOUS TOLL ON YOUR PHYSICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL HEALTH

Addiction can take many forms and profoundly impact your physical and mental well-being. Whether it's 'hard addictions' involving substances like alcohol, nicotine, cannabis, amphetamines, stimulants, hallucinogens and prescription medication or 'soft addictions' like gambling, sex, pornography, gaming or shopping, addiction can gradually take over your life, leaving you feeling powerless and isolated.

Often, addiction starts as a way to cope with emotional pain or trauma. Using substances to shift pain is not usually a conscious decision, but over time, it can spiral out of control, with substance use becoming a problem of its own. Once addiction takes hold, you can often have trouble controlling how much and how frequently you default to those behaviours. You can find yourself at the point where you are dependent on the addiction to get through daily life, and that usually means adverse psychological, physical and social effects.

Addiction can range from tolerably mild to devastatingly severe. If an addiction is affecting your quality of life, it is essential to seek treatment.

At Psychology Perspective, we understand the complexities of addiction and offer a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals to explore the root causes of their addictive behaviours. Our experienced psychologists are here to help you understand the underlying reasons for your addiction and develop personalised treatment plans to help you break free from its grip.

We offer a range of evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), tailored to your unique needs and circumstances. We aim to empower you to reclaim control of your life and build healthier habits and coping mechanisms. you'reu're struggling with addiction or know someone who is, you are not alone. With the proper support and guidance, recovery is possible. Take the first step towards freedom from addiction by contacting us today.

People suffering from addiction often experience the following symptoms:

Photo of rusted padlocks, Common Symptoms
  • Feeling driven to engage in a certain activity repeatedly, despite its negative impact on daily life
  • Loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities
  • Resorting to stealing or selling items to support the addictive behaviour
  • Experiencing mood swings, irritability, anger, anxiety or depression
  • Changes in eating or sleeping habits leading to weight gain or loss
  • Social withdrawal and spending less time with friends and family

If you’re experiencing thoughts of suicide or self-harm, please call Lifeline now on 13 11 14.

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We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land where we work and live, the Darkinjung People and pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging. We celebrate the stories, culture and traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders of all communities who also work and live on this land.