If you have an addiction, you’re not alone. According to the charity Action on Addiction, 1 in 3 people are addicted to something.

The NHS website defines addiction as not having control over doing, taking or using something to the point where it could be harmful to you. It is most commonly associated with gambling, drugs, alcohol and nicotine, but it’s possible to be addicted to just about anything.

The strain of managing an addiction can seriously damage your work life and relationships. In the case of substance misuse (for example, drugs and alcohol), an addiction can have serious psychological and physical effects. Addiction is treatable, so please speak to your GP or contact an organisation that specialises in helping people with addictions.

Samaritans To speak to someone anonymously about any type of addiction Phone: 116 123  (free 24-hour helpline) www.samaritans.org.uk

Alcoholics Anonymous Phone: 0845 769 7555 (24-hour helpline)  www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk

Gamblers Anonymous www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk

Narcotics Anonymous Phone: 0300 999 1212 (daily 10am to midnight)  www.ukna.org Talk to Frank Phone: 0300 1236600 www.talktofrank.com/ Adfam A national charity working to improve life for families affected by drugs or alcohol. https://adfam.org.uk/help-for-families

Smokefree www.nhs.uk/smokefree Rehab4Addiction A guide to alcohol addiction treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic