Addiction is a progressive mental health disorder which - unless treated - increases in severity over time.

It destroys relationships, breaks up families and consumes lives.

Addiction is the compulsive use of a substance or behaviour, despite negative or dangerous consequences.

There are two broad categories:

1. Substance addiction to substances such like alcohol, drugs (legal and illegal), glue, cigarettes, and even caffeine

2. Behavioural addiction, which includes problem gambling, sex, pornography, gaming, excessive internet use, excessive shopping and shoplifting.

Find out more about the types of addiction: