Addiction does not affect specific members of our society. It crosses gender, class, religion and culture to affect anyone, and can take the form of addiction to drink, drugs or gambling. What is certain though, is that addiction is a lonely and destructive place to be. It can break families, unravel lives and destroy self-confidence.
Alcohol is the number one drug of choice in Ireland. It is estimated that one in 10 people is alcoholic – with this having a direct negative effect on at least 5 other people. Based on the figures in the Health Research Board’s National Alcohol Diary Survey, more than 150,000 Irish people are dependent drinkers, more than a 1.35 million are harmful drinkers, and 30% of people interviewed say that they experienced some form of harm as a result of their own drinking.
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Drug addiction refers to the abuse of both illegal and prescription drugs – including sleeping tablets, anti-depressants, Benzodiazepines and pain killers.
It also applies to the taking of over-the-counter medication that has addictive properties, including pain killers and cough medicine.
Problem gambling can strain your relationships, interfere with responsibilities at home and work, and lead to financial catastrophe. You may even do things you never thought you would, like stealing to get money to gamble or take money meant for your children. You may think you can’t stop, but problem gambling and gambling addiction are treatable. If you’re ready to admit you have a problem and choose to seek help – you can overcome your gambling problem and regain control of your life.
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