Start Your Recovery

Amity provides compassionate, confidential support to guide you toward recovery and a healthier life.

Rate your Risk

Drug and alcohol use can harm your well-being and relationships.

Do the quiz

How can I start?

Understand the Stages of Change, and make the choice to change your harmful habits.

Find out more

Talk to us

We offer free and confidential support to our community. Reach out for counselling or a telehealth consultation.

Find out more

Drug & Alcohol use

Have you seen these signs?

These factors can also effect your family and friends

    • Drug & Alcohol use

    Understanding Addiction

    What is Addiction?

    Addiction is a complex condition characterised by compulsive substance use despite harmful consequences. It affects the brain's reward system, making it difficult for individuals to stop using drugs or alcohol, even when they know it's causing damage to their health, relationships, or daily life. Addiction isn't a lack of willpower—it’s a serious condition that requires treatment and support to overcome.

    How Addiction Works:

    Substances like drugs and alcohol can hijack the brain’s natural reward system. When you use them, your brain releases dopamine, a chemical that creates feelings of pleasure. Over time, your brain becomes dependent on the substance to feel good, leading to cravings and loss of control. As tolerance builds, you need more of the substance to get the same effect, which can lead to physical and psychological dependence.

    Why Addiction Happens:

    Addiction can be caused by a combination of factors, including genetics, environment, mental health, and past experiences. Some people may be more vulnerable to addiction due to their family history, exposure to high-stress situations, or using substances as a way to cope with trauma or emotional pain.

    Share by: