Addictions
Understanding addictions
Addiction grips countless blokes across Australia every year, sometimes bleeding into every aspect of our lives. It’s not just about depending on harmful substances like drugs and alcohol, either; any range of damaging behaviours can turn into addiction when they are set to fill a void after ongoing stress, a significant loss, trauma, and/or underlying mental health issues, including gambling, pornography, gaming, shopping, or even spending too much time on social media.
Addiction happens when we feel like we need something to get through the day – even when we want to stop, we find it incredibly difficult to do so without help. Unfortunately, so many men are silently struggling with some form of addiction, whether it’s substance-related or behavioural addiction. It’s not just a personal issue, either—addiction impacts families, workplaces, and communities.
At Blokes Psychology, we specialise in helping men understand their addictions, working together to develop healthier coping strategies and building a personalised path to recovery. Whether you’re facing substance use or a behavioural addiction, we’re here to offer guidance.
Common Types of Addictions
These addictive behaviours can provide a short-term stress release, an escape, or something to look forward to besides 'the daily grind' without considering the dire consequences. For example, statistics estimate that around 25% of people using illicit drugs develop an addiction.
Substance Use
Alcohol, illicit drugs, and prescription medications cause harm to our physical and mental health.
Gambling
Betting on sports, pokies, or other forms of gambling can become addictive and lead to financial hardship.
Internet and Gaming
Some people find it hard to control their screen time, whether playing online games or constantly scrolling through social media.
Pornography
Excessive use of explicit material can cause relationship problems and other mental, physical and interpersonal issues.
Social Media
The constant need to check notifications or scroll through feeds can interfere with daily life and relationships.
Food
Some men struggle with overeating or using food as a way to cope with stress.
Shopping
Compulsive spending can lead to financial problems and feelings of regret or guilt.
Work
Becoming overly focused on work, often to the detriment of relationships and health.
Steroid Use
The misuse of steroids, often to enhance physical appearance or performance, can lead to health risks and dependency.
Smoking
Nicotine addiction, whether through cigarettes or vaping, can be hard to quit and negatively affect overall health
Binge-watching
Spending hours consuming content online can negatively impact sleep, relationships, and productivity.
Crypto Trading
Obsessively trading cryptocurrencies can become addictive due to the highs and lows of the market.
Why do addictions develop?
Addictions don’t happen overnight. Instead, they often develop after a consistent mix of different personal factors—some internal, others external.
Biological Factors
Some men may be more prone to addiction because of their genetics or brain chemistry. If addiction runs in your family, there might be a higher risk for you as well. In fact, substance use disorders are classified as the third most prevalent category of mental health issues among Australian adults.
Psychological Factors
Mental health plays a huge role in addiction. Conditions like anxiety, depression, ADHD and trauma can make you more likely to turn to addictive behaviours as a way to cope. Sometimes, addiction starts as a way to numb emotional pain or avoid dealing with stress.
Environmental Factors
The people around you and your environment also matter. Peer pressure, stressful life events, or easy access to addictive substances or activities can all contribute to the development of addictions.
The impact of addictions
Without control, recognition and support, addictions can quickly take over someone’s life, impacting everything from mental health to personal performance to family matters. Over time, they can lead to severe consequences like losing employment, damaging relationships, and even legal trouble. In Australia, addiction-related issues cost billions of dollars annually in healthcare, lost productivity, and other social problems.
The longer an addiction is left untreated, the more it can grow, pulling you further into unhealthy patterns of behaviour. But it’s important to remember that recovery is always possible, no matter how bad it feels.
Signs and Symptoms of Addiction
Addiction isn’t always a clear-cut condition. Many people who have a substance use disorder cannot recognise it in their own behaviours. So, how can you tell if you or someone you know has an addiction?
Physical Signs
- Changes in appetite or sleep patterns.
- Weight gain or loss.
- Physical health problems that seem to come out of nowhere.
Psychological Signs
- Feeling anxious, depressed, or irritable most of the time.
- Trouble focusing or staying interested in things that used to matter.
- A constant sense of guilt or shame about your behaviour.
Behavioural Changes
- Neglecting responsibilities at work or home.
- Isolating yourself from friends and family.
- Engaging in risky or illegal activities to maintain the addiction.
Social Signs
- Intentionally withdrawing from social circles and gatherings
- Frequent conflict and arguments amongst family and friends
How Can Addiction Be Treated?
When it comes to treating addiction, it’s important to remember that everyone’s journey is different. At Blokes Psychology, we offer a range of treatment options designed to help you reclaim control over your life.
Detoxification
For some, the first step might involve detox, especially for those struggling with substance use. The detox process helps to remove the substance from your body safely and prepares you for the next stages of recovery.
Therapy Options
Our addiction management approach focuses on practical, personalised strategies tailored to each individual's needs. We aim to help you develop healthier ways to cope with addiction and understand the triggers that cause it. Our sessions provide a supportive environment where you can explore your emotions and learn effective methods, techniques and therapy options to regain control over your life.
Rather than focusing on a single method, we draw from various evidence-based techniques proven to help manage addiction. Our goal is to offer the right tools and strategies that work for you in the real world, helping you overcome your addiction in a way that improves both your personal and professional life.
Medication-Assisted Treatment
In some cases, medication can be a part of the treatment plan, especially for addictions related to opioids or alcohol. These medications help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it easier to focus on recovery.
Holistic Approaches
Many people find that practices like mindfulness, yoga, and exercise help manage addiction. A holistic approach looks at the entire person, not just the addiction, to help you heal physically, mentally, and emotionally.
The Role of Counselling and Therapy in Addiction Recovery
Counselling is a cornerstone of addiction treatment. Talking with a therapist helps you explore the root causes of your addiction and develop healthier ways of coping. Whether it’s one-on-one therapy or group sessions, counselling provides a safe space to work through your challenges.
At Blokes Psychology, we take a tailored approach to therapy, offering support designed to meet your unique needs. Our therapists are trained to help men overcome their addictions and work towards a more balanced, fulfilling life.
Seeking Help with Blokes Psychology
If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction, reaching out for help is the first step toward recovery. At Blokes Psychology, we understand the unique challenges men face when dealing with addictions, and we’re here to offer guidance and support.