What Is Addiction?

When we hear the word addiction, we often think of substances like alcohol or drugs — and these are indeed among the most commonly recognised forms. However, addiction isn’t limited to substances alone. While definitions vary, there’s growing recognition that a wide range of behaviours can also become addictive and have a significant impact on a person’s life.

Addictive behaviour can develop around activities such as gambling, shopping, food, sex, social media, work, exercise, and video games. While these behaviours may begin as harmless or even enjoyable, they can become problematic when they are used compulsively and begin to interfere with daily life, relationships, or mental health.

In many cases, anxiety and stress are at the root of these behaviours. Individuals may turn to certain activities as a coping mechanism — a way to escape, self-soothe, or experience a temporary “high” that provides relief from emotional discomfort. Over time, this relief becomes reinforcing, increasing the urge to repeat the behaviour, often despite negative consequences.

When the activity is restricted or stopped, it’s common to experience withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, or low mood, which further fuels the cycle.

How Solution Focused Hypnotherapy Can Help

Solution Focused Hypnotherapy helps break this cycle by addressing the underlying causes of stress and anxiety that often drive addictive behaviour. Rather than focusing on the addiction itself, this approach works to restore balance, build healthier coping strategies, and empower you to take back control.

By promoting relaxation, emotional clarity, and a more positive outlook, hypnotherapy supports long-term change and helps reduce the emotional need for the behaviour — leading to greater freedom, resilience, and wellbeing.