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Overcoming addiction

Key facts

  • Addiction is a condition where a person cannot control their use of substances or behaviours, even when it causes harm.
  • People can become addicted to substances like drugs and alcohol, as well as behaviours like gambling.
  • Addiction affects mental and physical health, relationships and responsibilities, but it is treatable with support.
  • Withdrawal symptoms may occur when trying to break an addiction, but support and strategies can help manage them.
  • Prevention strategies include promoting mental health, family support and addressing risks early.

What is addiction?

Addiction is being unable to control or stop using a substance or doing a behaviour, even though it's causing harm.

People can also become addicted or dependent on behaviours such as:

Addiction is a long-term health condition, similar to chronic diseases such as diabetes or asthma. Addiction can harm your health, relationships and ability to cope with responsibilities. With proper treatment and management, it can be controlled and recovery is possible.

What are the symptoms of addiction?

Addiction can appear in different ways depending on the substance or behaviour. You may:

  • be unable to stop even if you want to
  • need more of it to get the same effect
  • focus too much on your addiction
  • experience withdrawal without it
  • neglect your responsibilities
  • isolate yourself from friends and family
  • lose interest in hobbies

CHECK YOUR SYMPTOMS — Use the Symptom Checker and find out if you need to seek medical help.

What causes addiction?

There is no single cause for addiction. Addiction is a condition that happens when substances or behaviours cause a large release of dopamine in the brain. This creates a desire for more.

Risk factors include:

Over time, the brain needs more of the substance or behaviour to feel the same pleasure, leading to a cycle of addiction.

When should I see my doctor?

Talk to your doctor, mental health professional, counsellor or drug and alcohol service about your decision to quit. Be honest about your situation. Support from your friends or family members can also help.

Your doctor can refer you to a treatment service. You can also contact some services directly. Call the Alcohol and Drug Foundation (Opens in new tab) on 1800 250 015 to find out about these services.

Addiction is also associated with depression and anxiety. Beyond Blue (Opens in new tab) offers online support.

Preparing for an appointment? See our tips on questions to ask your doctor.

How is addiction diagnosed?

Addiction is diagnosed by looking at certain signs that you or a doctor may notice. These signs may include:

  • difficulty stopping substance use, even when you want to
  • using substances, despite harmful consequences
  • needing more to get the same effect (tolerance)
  • feeling sick or uncomfortable when you stop (withdrawal)

Your doctor may use screening tools or questionnaires to help assess how severe the addiction is and how it affects your daily life.

How is addiction treated?

Recovering from addiction can be tough and takes time. With the right support, it's possible. If you're worried, start by talking to your doctor to find the best options for you.

Treatments for addiction include:

If you are caring for someone with addiction, there are carers associations in your state or territory who provide counselling. They can also help to arrange respite care. Visit Carer Gateway (Opens in new tab) or call 1800 422 737 for information.

Deciding to make a change

Reducing or overcoming an addiction is not a simple process. It involves different stages of change. It is normal for people to move back and forth between these stages and make several attempts.

You may feel ready to change and start making progress. You may then decide to stop and relapse before returning to the process of change again.

Life without addiction

Living without addiction means staying in control by understanding and avoiding triggers that may lead to relapse. It is important to have a plan to manage your cravings and prevent relapse.

While avoiding all triggers isn't always possible, working with a counsellor can help you prepare for challenging moments.

Stress relief techniques can help distract you from cravings. If you relapse, don't be discouraged. Remember it's a normal part of recovery. It's okay to feel upset but stay focused on your reasons for quitting. Quitting often takes several tries.

Building a meaningful life without addiction

Here are tips that may help you stay addiction-free:

  • Do things that you enjoy and that mean a lot to you.
  • Set goals and have things to look forward to.
  • Stay connected to positive people who are recovering from addiction through support groups.
  • Take part in meaningful, socially engaging hobbies like volunteering.

What are the withdrawal symptoms of breaking an addiction?

When you break an addiction, you may have withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can vary but may include:

Withdrawal symptoms can be challenging. They may sometimes be life-threatening. Don't lose hope if it feels difficult. Overcoming addiction is easier if you:

  • have support
  • set clear goals
  • are prepared for the challenges that come with withdrawal

FIND A HEALTH SERVICE — The Service Finder can help you find doctors, pharmacies, hospitals and other health services.

Can addiction be prevented?

Preventing addiction involves reducing risks and strengthening protective factors. Some ways to help prevent addiction include:

  • looking after your mental well-being
  • addressing peer pressure early
  • learning about the risks of substance use
  • maintaining strong family connections for support
  • building healthy social connections
  • creating positive environments
  • acting early when risks are identified

These strategies can lower the chances of developing an addiction and support healthier lifestyle choices.

Healthy ways to cope with stress

Stress is a common factor that can lead to addiction and increase the risk of relapse. There are healthy ways to cope with stress, such as:

A counsellor may also help you with relaxation strategies, such as:

  • deep, controlled breathing
  • muscle relaxing techniques
  • visualising a safe place

Resources and support

Overcoming addiction is easier if you seek help. Talk to your doctor or use the following services for information and support:

Support apps include:

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

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Last reviewed: February 2025

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