ADDICTION

Addiction is a complex and treatable condition that can affect a person’s health, relationships, work, and overall well-being. Addiction causes difficulty controlling use of a substance or behaviour despite negative consequences. It can involve substances such as alcohol, cannabis, and other drugs, as well as certain behaviours, such as gambling.

Addiction can affect people of all ages and backgrounds. It is not simply a lack of willpower; it can be influenced by biological, psychological, and social factors, and may develop as a way of coping with stress, emotional pain, or other underlying challenges.

Addiction can present differently from person to person. Common signs and symptoms include:

emotional and cognitive Symptoms

  • Strong urges or cravings to use a substance or engage in a behaviour

  • Difficulty thinking about anything other than obtaining, using, or engaging in the activity

  • Using substances or behaviours to cope with stress, anxiety, or difficult emotions

  • Feelings of guilt, shame, or distress related to use or behaviour

  • Irritability, anxiety, or low mood when unable to engage in the activity

behavioural Symptoms

  • Difficulty reducing or stopping use despite wanting to do so

  • Spending increasing amounts of time obtaining, using, or recovering from a substance or behaviour

  • Continuing despite negative consequences

  • Neglecting responsibilities, relationships, or previously valued activities

  • Hiding or minimizing the extent of use or behaviour

  • Developing tolerance or experiencing withdrawal symptoms

impact on daily life

  • Strained relationships with family, friends, or colleagues

  • Difficulties at work, school, or home

  • Financial, legal, or health-related problems

  • Reduced participation in meaningful activities

  • Increasing reliance on a substance or behaviour to manage everyday challenges

Treatment for addiction is most effective when it addresses both the addictive behaviour and the underlying factors that may contribute to it. This requires a multifaceted and customized approach for each person, ideally including psychological treatment, healthy lifestyle changes, and social support.

Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) can help identify triggers, change unhelpful patterns, manage cravings, and develop healthier coping strategies. Motivational interviewing helps people explore their reasons for change, resolve ambivalence, and strengthen motivation for recovery. Relapse prevention strategies build skills to recognize high-risk situations, manage urges, and respond constructively to setbacks. Treatment may also address stress, trauma, anxiety, depression, or other difficulties that contribute to substance use or addictive behaviours.

Recovery from addiction is possible, whether you’re aiming for complete abstinence or gradual harm-reduction.

At ClearStream Psychology, Dr. Jenny Horch and Dr. Jenney Zhu have expertise in effective and compassionate treatment for addiction.

We perform a thorough assessment to explore your history and symptoms, and help you make sense of what you’re dealing with. Then we collaborate with you to develop a customized treatment plan that meets your unique needs and treatment goals using effective therapeutic strategies supported by research. With the right support and strategies, you can develop new coping skills and make meaningful improvements to your well-being.

Let us help you get back into the flow of life!