Addictions can sometimes start out as enjoyable habits – like a smoke or drink with friends, a flutter at the races, or taking drugs to relax. 

 But if you’re no longer in control of your habit, or it becomes harmful, that’s an addiction. 

People may turn to substances like drugs or alcohol for enjoyment, or to try and deal with what’s going on in their lives. So although an addiction can be the result of a mental health problem, it can also cause them.

We have some helpful resources and self-help tools to inform and support you in understanding mental health and addictions.