People can be addicted to many things: food, alcohol, drugs, computer games, work, sex, and many other types of behaviour. A behaviour becomes a problem when the need for it is so important that it starts to controls our life. When our need for something becomes more important than our family, friends or finances, or is affecting our health, then we should consider whether we are becoming addicted.
Addiction can be psychological or physical - smoking is an example where both are involved. Nicotine is addictive, but so is the habit of lighting up at certain times and in certain situations, having the psychological comfort of a cigarette. If we start getting secretive about our behaviour, that is another indicator that it is becoming a problem.
If you feel that a way of behaving is beginning to control your life, then consider talking confidentially to someone, and check out some of the links below. If there is someone you know who seems to have an addiction, you could find out how to help via some of the organisations below.

• Alcohol
• Drugs
• Prescription drugs
  
• Gambling
• Eating Disorders
• Obsessional thinking/Compulsive Behaviour

For more detailed information about addiction try:

• The Addiction Resource Guide
• Drug and Alcohol addictions/abuse

For other sources of help:

• Samaritans
• Turning Point