Addiction FAQs

What is an addiction?
Addiction can take many forms. The most common addictions are substance abuse and repetitive, damaging behaviors. Substance abuse is a dependence on alcohol, narcotics, and/or prescription drugs. Problem gambling is a repetitive behavior which leads one to spending money on lottery tickets, video lottery terminals, slot machines, and other betting schemes. Dependences can result in serious health risks, legal and financial problems, as well as family disturbance.

There is a difference between a habit and an addiction. Habits shape our personalities and enrich our lives, but when they become obsessive and harmful, they turn into addictions. When these addictions hurt us, and those we love, we need to get help to break the addiction and restore health and happiness.

How can I tell if I'm addicted? I …
spend money my family or I are counting on to gamble or buy drugs and/or alcohol
break promises to spend time with loved ones, or hurt them in other ways, so I can feed my addiction
suffer from drug or alcohol consumption when my losses increase
am unhappy because I can't stop my addiction
cannot reach my goals

When should I seek help? Once I …
have tried, but can't change my ways
have been able to change my behavior, but I am still unhappy and something is missing
am wondering if I need help - now may be a good time to get it

What is the Gambler Information Line?
People who need information on gambling can call 1-800-461-1234 24/7 and speak with a health professional - It’s free and confidential. Counselors will propose options to help confront gambling problems or they may guide you towards more therapy.

Who can help in New Brunswick?
There are eight centres in the province with specialized staff working with people who have problems with alcohol, other drugs, or gambling.

Staff works with clients, to keep them motivated and on track towards recovery. Addiction Services and clients work together to design and implement a tailored treatment and recovery plan. This plan can include detoxification, rehabilitation, out-patient counseling services, and research.

Counselors understand the need for confidentiality. They are social workers who operate under a code of ethics enforced by provincial legislation and the New Brunswick Association of Social Workers.

What if I'm almost ready to get help, but not just yet?
If you are not yet ready to get help, there are self-help books available so you can determine if you have a problem.

What programs and resources are available regionally?
There are Regional Addiction Services in all health regions of New Brunswick. Program delivery varies between regions, but each region offers detoxification, out patient, and wellness.

What programs are available provincially?

Short Term Residential Programs:

The Program provides a complete change in environment for those who need it. Group therapy, education, stress management, self-awareness sessions, combined with a therapeutic environment, provide participants with new skills to achieve and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

What else can I do?
Visit Al-Anon / Alateen Organisation
Visit Alcoholics Anonymous
Visit other Web sites for Addictions
Visit Mothers against drunk driving