Last week I wrote about the difference between habits and addictions. This week let’s take a look at what we can do about them.

Unwanted habits are things we do that we would like to change; these can be dealt with relatively easily. Things such as changing your routine or making a conscious effort through the use of willpower can do wonders. Encouragement from family and friends can also go a long way to help, as can various types of therapy.

However, when someone is in the grip of addiction, it can often take a major event such as losing their home, job or marriage before they finally accept their addiction is out of control.

ALSO READ: Addiction and unwanted habits - what's the difference?

Up to this point, a person may well have been in denial about just how bad their problem actually is. They may have convinced themselves they are still in control of their substance or alcohol intake or think they can still win back their losses.

Many addictions start out as something which is sociable, such as drinking with friends or sharing a line or two, even the banter at the bookies as they make their daily bet. However, as things spiral out of control an addict can find themselves isolated and consumed by repetitive thoughts of guilt, shame and even self-harm.

At some point, they may well reach a point where they realise they need to do something about it, in other words, a turning point.

For many, this can feel like the most lonely and helpless time of their lives. They have hit rock bottom. If this is you or someone you love then there is help available, but you need to make the first move and reach out.

There are of course many other reasons people have turned to substances in the first place, often to blank out something which happened to them when they were younger.

ALSO READ: Where phobias come from and what to do if you have one

It may have been just to feel more confident and less fearful in ordinary situations and then spiralled out of control. Whatever the reason, if you reach out to get help for your addiction you can also be supported to deal with these causes.

The long-established groups such as Alcoholics/Narcotics/Gamblers Anonymous all offer support and encouragement together with access to, or knowledge of, other professional help.

Taking that first step will often be the hardest thing to do. The important thing to know is that if you have some type of addiction you are most definitely not alone.

Your story is unique to you, but there are many others who have similar ones, and they can give you the support and sense of community you will need to get your life back on track and come out the other side.

There are many other charities, both locally and nationally that can help too.

ALSO READ: 5 danger signs someone may be struggling with mental health

As I touched on last time, some addictions can become so bad that the dependency is physical as well as psychological. This will require specialist medical intervention and if you feel you need for encouragement or support before you contact your doctor or another medical professional, then the charities below can help you with this.

As a final note on this subject, please remember that everyone who has recovered with the help of these organisations made that initial step and reached out to them.

Next week I will be taking a look at the subject of school bullying and protecting the mental health of those who may be subjected to it.

Gamblers Anonymous 0330 0940322

Alcoholics Anonymous 0800 9177650

Narcotics Anonymous 0300 999 1212

If you feel you are in a mental health crisis or emergency and may be in danger of causing harm to yourself or others then please contact your GP, Samaritans on 116 123 or attend A&E.​