About addictions

This page provides general information about addictions, how to recognise an addiction, its stages and how to recover from it or help if you are seeking information for a friend or family member.

An addiction can sometimes be difficult to recognise. As of 2023, alcohol addiction is the most common addiction in the Netherlands. Cocaine addiction, cannabis (marijuana/hashish) and various so-called behavioural addictions are also common. Because alcohol is accepted in our society, it can sometimes be difficult to determine whether someone has an alcohol problem, an addiction or simply drinks heavily. When do you need help with alcohol addiction? Ask yourself the following questions:

• Have my attempts to stop or cut down been unsuccessful?
• Am I always actively looking for places where alcohol can be consumed and avoiding places where I cannot drink freely?
• Do I feel guilty about how much and how often I drink?
• Do I experience symptoms if I suddenly stop drinking?
• Do I ever have blackouts, with parts of the evening missing from my memory?
• Have I ever missed work or study because of alcohol or substance use, or am I neglecting my activities?
• Do I argue with family members about how much I drink?
• Do I drink in situations where doing so endangers others, such as in traffic?
• Do I try to deny and conceal my alcohol and substance use?
• Am I caught in a downward spiral?

Do you recognise yourself in the points above? Or do these questions remind you of someone else? It is never too late to seek help for addiction. Our team and practitioners are ready to help you.