Addiction
What is it?
There are two types of addictions. On the one hand, addiction to substances/substances such as alcohol, nicotine, drugs. This type of addiction is maintained by continuing to use the substances. On the other, addiction to behaviour involving gaming, shopping, gambling, sex etc. This type of addiction is maintained by the thrill you get from performing the acts.
How do you recognise addictive behaviour?
If you are addicted then you exhibit addictive behaviour:
- You are constantly using the drug to achieve a certain effect
- Desire (craving or sigh) creates a repeating pattern
- This pattern is difficult or impossible to break
- Your daily life suffers
In mental dependence, you crave the drug so much that all you can think about is using the drug, this makes you feel like you cannot live without it. With physical dependence, your body has become accustomed to using a substance. This causes your body to protest if you don't use the drug. This can result in symptoms of illness such as fever, nausea, headaches and insomnia. The so-called withdrawal symptoms.
Causes of addiction
Children where one or both parents have been addicts are more likely to develop an addiction. In addition, personal and environmental factors can also play a role. Consider, for instance, a psychological disorder (e.g. depression or trauma). Various stress factors can come into play, e.g. financial problems or study problems. Addiction causes dampening of emotions.
What can you do yourself?
Acknowledging addiction is often accompanied by shame. For many people, it is therefore difficult to admit that they need help. Addiction is treatable. Contact your genral practioner.
Self-learning module
With your Fontys account, you can make free use of online self-help modules (e-health). Check out the modules related to addiction below.
Alcohol
Do you have doubts about your alcohol usage? Do you want to get better at coping with temptation or social pressure? This is the right module for you! It contains useful tips and exercises that will give you more control over your alcohol usage and keep your drinking fun and responsible.
Go to the self-learning module
Smartphone
Are you in control of your smartphone or do you use it more often than you would like?. In the latter case, it would be a good idea to take a closer look at your smartphone usage. This module can help. It contains useful tips, fun videos and exercises to put you back in control.
Go to the self-learning module
Useful links - Addiction
Contact team Student Guidance
- If addiction is affecting your mental well-being, make an appointment with a student psychologist.
- If addiction is an actual impedement on your study progress, please book an appointment with a student counsellor.