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Explain it to me simply

What is addiction?

Addiction, often called a substance use disorder, is a pattern where substance use becomes difficult to control and continues despite harm. It can affect health, relationships, work and daily life.

The important distinction

It is treatable. People use different paths, including counselling, medication, peer support, harm reduction and changes to housing or social supports. Needing help is not a moral failure.

What can I do next?

Start with a conversation about your goals. You do not need to have every answer or commit to one particular pathway to ask about options.

Further reading: Official health source ↗

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