Addiction is a compulsive behaviour in which a person resorts to repeated and often unhealthy usage of a substance or a behaviour that is clearly detrimental to health. The root cause of addiction can be linked to many factors such as early exposure, fascination with the substance or behaviour, psychological influences, or physiological factors.
It might be shocking to know the data about addiction in India. More than 15% of the population is addicted to one or more substances. Among them:
Alcohol addiction – about 5%
Cannabis (Ganja) addiction – around 3%
Other substances – approximately 3%
Tobacco addiction – nearly 28% (with tobacco use disorders slightly lower at 20%)
With a population of 1.4 billion, more than 305 million people in India are affected by addiction—a figure larger than the entire population of many countries combined. Unfortunately, most rehabilitation centres in Chennai and across the country are not equipped to meet the needs of such a huge affected population.
Some of the Common Types of Addictions
Addictions can be broadly classified into three types.
Substance Addictions
- Alcohol addiction
- Cannabis addiction
- Tobacco / Nicotine addiction
- Caffeine addiction
Behavioural Addictions
- Gambling addiction
- Internet addiction
- Gaming addiction
- Social media addiction
- Shopping addiction
Food-related Addictions
- Sugar addiction
- High-salt food dependency
- Binge eating disorder
These are some of the most common addictions people face. Out of these, most are aware of substance addictions, which often carry social taboo and judgement. However, many fail to realize the severity of behavioural addictions such as gaming, gambling, or internet addiction. In addition, food-related addictions and dependencies are largely ignored by the majority, even though they can have a significant impact on both physical and mental health.
Impacts of Addiction on Your Life
Addictions can have serious effects on every aspect of your life—physical health, mental health, relationships, and finances. Many people only consider the physical impacts of addiction. For example:
- Smoking can damage the lungs and reduce breathing ability.
- Alcohol abuse can cause long-lasting damage to the body.
- Cannabis addiction may lead to neurological problems.
Prolonged use of these substances can also affect vital organs such as the liver, heart, and brain, impacting overall body function.
The effects of addiction go beyond the physical. Psychological impacts can be severe, long-lasting, and challenging to treat.
Relationships also suffer. Continuous substance use can damage your personal and professional image and isolate you from friends and social circles.
Financial well-being is another major casualty. Many addictive substances are expensive, illegal, and heavily regulated, making the cost of addiction extremely high. One compulsive behaviour can disrupt your life and create numerous unnecessary problems.
It is crucial to take action early if you notice signs of addiction.
How to Overcome Addiction
Getting free from addiction is not easy, but it is definitely possible. The first step is to acknowledge that you are in a destructive phase of your life.
The next crucial step is to seek professional help. This can include consulting psychiatrists in Chennai or enrolling in rehabilitation centres in Chennai, both of which can transform your life. The earlier you access professional support, the higher the chances of becoming completely free from addiction.
After therapy sessions, it is important to implement lifestyle changes. These small but meaningful changes can help you lead a happy, balanced, and content life.
Key lifestyle strategies include:
Although these may seem like simple or common-sense solutions, they are highly effective in managing addiction and preventing relapse.
Find the Best Professional Help at Serene Life Hospital
Serene Life Hospital is one of the most famous and sought-after addiction recovery centres in Chennai, offering holistic mental and physical care.
At our hospital, we provide specialized care for alcohol addiction. In addition, we offer treatment for other drug addictions, ensuring every patient receives the right support for their unique needs.
Our team of experienced women psychiatrists in Chennai provides dedicated psychological care, attention, and counselling to help patients overcome addiction effectively. Following this, a structured rehabilitation program is planned and carried out to support full recovery.
Our medical doctors ensure that patients receive all necessary medications to manage withdrawal symptoms safely. Additionally, patients gain access to support groups, which help them stay grounded and prevent any relapse in the future.
Overcome Addiction with Ease – Join Serene Life Hospital
If you or your friends and family are struggling with addiction, it is the right time to visit Serene Life Hospital. Our hospital is known for its compassionate care and affectionate treatment, ensuring every patient feels supported.
We are one of the top-rated rehabilitation centres in Chennai, offering holistic treatments for all forms of addiction.
Call us for a free consultation, or visit our hospital with the patient to discuss the next steps in recovery. Come with confidence and leave with happiness.
