Addiction is defined as not having control over doing, taking or using something to the point where it could be harmful to you.
If you need advice on drugs and alcohol or addition to gaming or gambling, the following resources might be able to help.
WithYou
WithYou is a drug, alcohol and mental health charity. With over 80 services across England and Scotland, they provide support and advice to more than 100,000 people a year. They're working towards a future free from harm caused by alcohol, drug and mental health challenges, where anyone seeking help feels welcomed, not judged.
Talk to Frank
Talk to Frank gives honest information about drugs.
Visit the Talk to Frank website.
NHS
Alcohol misuse is when you drink in a way that's harmful, or when you're dependent on alcohol. The NHS website has some useful information.
Alateen
Part of Al-Anon, Alateen meetings are attended by 12-17-year olds, some of these are online meetings. They meet to support and share their experiences of having, or having had, a problem drinker in their lives. By attending meetings, young people gain an understanding of the illness and feel the benefits of realising they are not alone. Each Alateen meeting is sponsored by two experienced Al-Anon members who are screened and vetted to work with young people by the Criminal Records Bureau in England and Wales. Their helpline is open 10am to 10pm, seven days a week. You can call them on 0800 0086 811.
Adfam
Adfam is a national charity working to improve life for families affected by drugs or alcohol.
Fixers
Fixers is a ‘virtual hub’ of a joint project between Groundwork UK, The Children’s Society and Fixers funded under the Home Office ‘Choices’ programme and aimed at young people aged between 10 and 19 who are at risk of alcohol and drug misuse, and the crime that is often associated.
National Association for Children of Alcoholics
The National Association for Children of Alcoholics (Nacoa) offers support to meet the needs of children growing up in families where one or both parents suffer from alcoholism or a similar addictive problem. You can contact their helpline on 0800 358 3456.
Addaction
Addaction is a UK mental health, drug and alcohol charity, working with adults and young people, in community settings, in prisons, in residential rehab and through outreach.
Via
Via (formerly Westminster Drug Project, WDP) is a charity that supports people to transform their lives for the better, helping them to manage their health and wellbeing independently. Their Cheshire West and Chester service supports young people in the area up to age 18.
GamCare
GamCare provides information, advice, and support for anyone harmed by gambling. A dedicated young people’s service can support anyone aged 18 and under who is at risk of, or experiencing harm because of gambling. This can be if they are gambling themselves or if they are affected by someone else’s gambling. Offering self-help tools, interventions or confidential guidance and support through the Helpline or Live chat. Call their 24 hour helpline on 0808 80 20 133.
BigDeal
BigDeal is a place for young people to get information, advice, and guidance about gambling. They also offer advice to parents and professionals. You can reach them by telephone on 0203 092 6964. Live chat is also available via the website, 24 hours a day.
Young Minds
Gaming can be a great way to relax and hang out with friends. But sometimes, gaming can get in the way of things like studying or sleep. If you're feeling like this, there are some tips to keep your gaming positive and balanced on the Young Minds website.