There are thousands of families that have been touched by addiction. Whether the addiction is to illegal drugs, prescription opiates, alcohol or nicotine, it has become a widespread problem in today's world. The recent rise of prescription addiction has been startling in the U.S. alone in the past decade.

There are many reasons behind addiction. Science believes that there are certain inherited triggers that may make a person more likely to display addiction habits, but that does not mean that all people who may have this characteristic eventually become addicts. Addiction can start through peer pressure, experimentation, depression or as a result of an injury that requires high levels of painkillers.

In many cases, people who end up being an addict had no intention of ever being in that position. Drug and alcohol dependence can happen to anyone, and it sometimes happens very quickly depending on the substance being abused. The good news is that addiction is very treatable, and addicts can go on to have happy and productive lives after they have sought treatment.

If you have a family member, a friend or are even struggling with an addiction yourself, know that there is help out there for you. Just talking to your doctor, a family member or a counsellor for more information is a positive step in the right direction.

Denial is the largest obstacle that is faced by addicts. No one wants to admit that they have a problem that they can’t control or stop of their own free will. Substance addiction is a powerful enemy to have in your life and often uncontrollable regardless of your wants. Powerful cravings will nearly always win out over common sense, making addiction a difficult beast to deal with on your own.

If you feel like you or someone close to you may have an issue, the first things to consider are the signs and symptoms of addiction. Everyone's story is different, however, there are certain signs that are common through most levels and types of addiction. If you are dealing with or are witnessing anyone dealing with these signs, it may be time to ask for more help.

Signs & Symptoms

• You can’t stop the addictive behaviour by sheer will after many attempts.

• You experience withdrawal symptoms when you try to stop using, including moodiness, shaking, increased appetite, depression, nightmares, nausea, trembling, hallucinations and sweats.

• Even if there are associated health risks with the addictive behavior, it is not enough for you to stop.

• You start making social sacrifices to avoid places where your addictive behavior is not allowed. For example, if you are a drinker and are invited to a “dry” event, you may find a reason not to go.

• You find that making sure that you have your supply is more important than other things.

• You are taking unnecessary risks, including theft, to ensure that you have your supply at all times.

• You may become very secretive around friends and family members.

• You start to become isolated and spend most of your time alone or only with others that share your addiction.

There is hope for all addicts. With hard work and the proper counselling and assistance, addiction can be conquered. If you see yourself in any of these signs or symptoms you need to know that you are not alone and that help is just a call away.