Understanding Addictions - Adults

An informative site exploring alcohol, gambling, smoking, and internet/gaming addictions, their effects on wellbeing, and available support resources.

CONTRIBUTED BY

Health Promotion Board

Understanding addictions

Most of us juggle multiple roles and responsibilities, balancing work, social life, not forgetting family commitments. Understandably, these pressures can feel overwhelming and lead some of us down a troublesome path of addiction to escape or cope with our problems.

As a result, addictions can pose significant risks to our well-being. They can often make us spiral into a destructive cycle that affects our health.

Who is this for?

What are addictions?

Addictions are patterns of behaviour where a person becomes strongly attached or dependent on something to the point where it becomes difficult to control or stop that behaviour, even if it has negative consequences on their life.

Types of addictions

These addictions can involve substances like alcohol or activities such as gambling, smoking, or excessive internet or video game use. The effects reach far, impacting our physical and mental health, relationships, and overall well-being.

Reaching out for support and intervention is a natural and important step in overcoming addiction. Curious about addictions and their common misconceptions? Read more.

Understanding alcohol use disorder

For some of us, drinking might start as a social activity at parties or casual gatherings; a way to unwind or meet new people without the awkwardness. But sometimes, what begins as occasional drinking can grow into something more, where we find ourselves drinking not just for enjoyment, but out of a need that feels beyond our control.

What is alcohol use disorder?

Alcohol use disorder , or alcohol addiction, is an addictive condition that leads to impaired control, psychological dependence and physiological changes associated with the problematic excessive usage of alcohol.

When we drink excessively, our bodies struggle to process the alcohol, leading to a buildup of harmful substances. Beyond the physical effects, alcohol addiction can land us in risky situations, like drunk driving or engaging in risky behaviours, putting our safety and the safety of those around us in danger.

How does alcohol use disorder affect our bodies?

What puts us at risk?

Our genetics, psychological state, social environment, and personal experiences can affect how alcohol impacts us. Some signs that we might be developing an alcohol addiction include:

Binge drinking (e.g. 5 or more standard drinks* for men, or 4 or more drinks for women in one drinking session)

* A standard alcoholic drink is defined as a can (330 ml) of regular beer, half a glass (100 ml) of wine or 1 nip (30 ml) of spirit

Other factors:

Drinking at an early age
Family history of alcohol use
Co-occurring mental health conditions

How does alcohol use disorder affect our bodies?

Those of us living with alcohol addiction may face severe health problems over time, including liver failure, various cancers, long-lasting brain damage, or memory issues. Alcohol also works as a depressant, slowing down brain functions, which can lead to poor memory and decision-making.

As our brain adapts to regular alcohol consumption, it takes more alcohol to achieve the same euphoric effect, leading to a dangerous cycle of increased drinking over time. When we try to stop, withdrawal symptoms can set in, ranging from mild discomfort like hand tremors or poor sleep, to more severe reactions such as confusion, hallucinations, and seizures.

Common
misconceptions

01 It is okay to drink in moderation every day, as long as I stay within limits.

What people may think:

It is okay to drink in moderation every day, as long as I stay within limits.

Did you know?
Regular drinking can alter brain function over time and lead to a cycle where we crave more alcohol. When we try to stop, withdrawal symptoms develop, pulling us deeper into the addiction.

02 It is okay to drink regularly for social reasons.

What people may think:

It is okay to drink regularly for social reasons.

Did you know?
Alcohol, in any amount, affects physical and mental abilities, lowering speed and accuracy. In excess, it can lead to drunken behaviour, increasing the risk of car accidents and injuries (e.g. permanent disability and death).

03 Beer and wine are less intoxicating than liquor, so it is okay to drink more of them.

What people may think:

Beer and wine are less intoxicating than liquor, so it is okay to drink more of them.

Did you know?
A standard glass of wine, bottle of beer or a shot of whiskey contains equivalent amounts of alcohol. Thus, a 350ml can of beer, a 120ml glass of wine, or a normal mixed drink or cocktail are all equally intoxicating and give the same blood alcohol content (BAC).

Signs we may have alcohol use disorder

Alcohol use disorder can range from mild to severe, depending on the number of symptoms the individual experiences.

Signs we may have alcohol use disorder

Alcohol use disorder can range from mild to severe, depending on the number of symptoms the individual experiences.

Some of the common signs include:

Struggling to limit alcohol intake, even when we want to
Strong cravings for alcohol
Continued drinking despite it causing problems in our personal and/or professional life
Giving up activities we once enjoyed because of drinking
Drinking in risky situations (e.g. driving, swimming, handling machinery)
Needing more alcohol to feel the same effects
Experiencing withdrawal symptoms (e.g. nausea, sweating, hand tremors or craving alcohol to avoid withdrawal symptoms)

Diagnosis

Healthcare professionals can diagnose alcohol use disorder by discussing the individual’s medical and psychiatric history, family history, current symptoms, and how alcohol has affected the individual’s daily life. There must be a problematic usage of alcohol that has led to significant impairment over a 12‑month duration, exhibited by at least 2 of the following:

Increasing usage of alcohol, or over a longer period than originally intended
Repeated unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control usage, despite the desire to do so
Large amount of time spent on activities to obtain, use, or recover from the effects of alcohol
Presence of a strong desire or urge to use alcohol
Repeated alcohol usage resulting in a significant failure to fulfil major roles
Persistent alcohol use despite recurring social or interpersonal problems, with continued consumption despite awareness of the physical or psychological issues it causes.
Giving up important activities due to the alcohol use
Repeated usage despite significant impairments in physical health
Increased tolerance as defined by either:
- Need for increasing amounts of alcohol to achieve the same or desired effects, or
- Reduced effects with continued use of the same amount of alcohol
Withdrawal as defined by either:
- Characteristic withdrawal symptoms, or
- Alcohol being used to prevent or avoid withdrawal symptoms

A GUIDE TO

Preventing alcohol
addiction

Avoid using alcohol to cope with stress

Alcohol may seem like a quick fix for stress or insomnia, but it often worsens sleep and mood. Instead, try healthier coping strategies like exercise, hobbies, or time with loved ones. Consider placing reminders of these healthy activities—like running shoes or a yoga mat—in visible places at the living room to encourage you to choose them over alcohol.

Moderation is key

If there is a need to drink, remember that moderation is crucial: men should consume no more than 2 standard drinks a day, and women, no more than 1. A standard drink is typically a can (330 ml) of regular beer, half a glass (100 ml) of wine, or 1 nip (30 ml) of spirits.

Swapping alcohol for non-alcoholic beverages can help us stay within these limits and reduce the chances of over-consumption.

Avoid binge drinking

Binge drinking, is defined as consuming 5 or more standard drinks for men and 4 or more for women, significantly raises the risk of developing Alcohol Use Disorder.

Eat before and during a drinking session

To prevent intoxication, eat before and during drinking to slow down alcohol absorption. Avoid salty foods, as they increase thirst and alcohol consumption.

When drinking, take small sips

Taking small sips instead of chugging your drink can help you pace yourself, maintain better control over your alcohol intake, and make it easier for your body to process the alcohol.

Ensure you are taking enough fluids

Staying hydrated is essential, especially when consuming alcohol, as it can cause dehydration, particularly in the brain, leading to headaches and more severe hangovers.

Avoid or refrain from buying or stocking up on alcohol at home

Limiting access to alcohol in our immediate environment creates a physical barrier that helps reduce temptation and prevent excessive drinking.

Treatment

Alcohol use disorder is a serious condition, but it is treatable. Treatment options range from counselling, medications, and support for any related health conditions.

Most individuals can be treated on an outpatient basis, but some may need inpatient care, especially if there is a history of severe health problems, previous seizures or delirium.

Recovery is possible with the right support and commitment to change. The first step in treatment is often detoxification, which usually takes about a week. After detox, ongoing counselling and, if necessary, medications can help prevent relapse and support recovery.

Finding Support:
Mental health services

If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol addiction, consider reaching out to one of the following resources:

National Addictions Management Service (NAMS)

Visit www.nams.sg
Call the All Addictions Helpline at 6‑7326837 (6‑RECOVER)
Operating hours: Everyday 8:30am‑9:00pm (inclusive of public holiday)

We Care

A Community-Based Addiction Recovery Centre that treats all forms of addictions including drugs, alcohol, and compulsive behaviours like problem gambling. They provide counselling, education and therapy groups and also has community-based drop-in centre.

Alcoholics Anonymous

This is a fellowship of men and women who share their experiences, strength and hope with each other, that they may solve their common problem and help others in recovery.

SobeRISE

This specialised programme offers support and assistance to individuals and families affected by issues associated with alcohol abuse.

First Stop for Mental Health

Not sure whom to reach out to? You can approach any of these First Stop for Mental Health. They can help identify your mental health needs, provide brief support, and guide you to the most suitable services:

National mindline
(24-hour)

1-771

6669-1771

In-person services

CREST

CHAT (for individuals aged 16-30)

Digital

mindline.sg

National mindline
(24-hour)

In-person services

Digital

Alternatively, you can click here to explore mental health resources and services located near you.

References

Understanding gambling addiction

For many of us, gambling could be an occasional activity. But have you ever wondered if it becomes more serious? The excitement we feel may make it hard to stop, and before we know it, what started as a harmless pastime can evolve into something much harder to manage.

What is gambling addiction?

What puts us at risk?

What is gambling addiction?

Gambling addiction occurs when one has an impaired ability to resist the impulse to gamble despite the harmful consequences of participation. These harmful consequences may include:

Risky behaviours, like borrowing money from illegal sources to fund the addiction
Struggling with financial problems that seem to pile up
Facing legal issues
Failing to fulfil important life roles such as being a parent, spouse, or employee
Strained relationships with loved ones

Living with gambling addiction doesn’t just impact one’s finances—it can also increase stress, anxiety, and even lead to depression. These effects extend beyond the individual, impacting the people they care about most.

What puts us at risk?

These factors can increase the risk of gambling addiction:

Family history of addiction or mental health issues
- Adolescents and older adults are most at risk for developing gambling disorder.
- Males as¹ they are greater risk-takers as compared to females².
Individuals who are already dealing with a substance addiction like drugs and alcohol.
Social environment where:
- Individuals who grew up with an over emphasis or importance placed on money.
- Individuals who have lived or are living in an environment of extreme poverty.
- Individuals who may be socially isolated or have little social connections.³
Personality factors⁴:
- Having higher levels of impulsivity
- Have a hard time in decision-making and planning
- Low self-directedness⁵

Common
misconceptions

01 If I don’t owe any debts, it is okay to gamble frequently.

What people may think:

If I don’t owe any debts, it is okay to gamble frequently.

Did you know?
Gambling addiction often begins with a win, which fuels the desire to chase after more victories. This can lead to losing significant amounts of money, signalling the start of a gambling problem.

02 Stock investment is not gambling, it is a calculated risk.

What people may think:

Stock investment is not gambling, it is a calculated risk.

Did you know?
Stock investments can share similarities with gambling, especially when driven by the desire for quick wealth. High-risk stock options can lead to losses and financial instability, much like gambling.

Signs we may have gambling addiction

Behavioural Signs

Stop doing things that were previously enjoyed
Missing family events
Ignoring self-care, work, school or family duties
Conflicts over money
Neglecting children and their basic care
Frequently thinking and talking about gambling
Less willing to spend money on things other than gambling
Cheat or steal to gamble or pay debts
Legal issues related to gambling

Emotional Signs

Withdraws from family and friends
Distant, anxious, or has difficulty paying attention
Mood swings and sudden outbursts of anger
Boredom or restlessness

Financial Signs

Frequently borrowing money or asking for salary advances
Cashing in savings accounts or insurance plans
Alternating between being broke and flashing money

Health Signs

Headaches
Stomach issues
Difficulty sleeping
Changes in appetite

Diagnosis

Persistent and recurrent problematic gambling behaviour leading to clinically significant impairment or distress, as indicated by the individual exhibiting four (or more) of the following in a 12-month period:

Diagnosis

Persistent and recurrent problematic gambling behaviour leading to clinically significant impairment or distress, as indicated by the individual exhibiting four (or more) of the following in a 12-month period:

Problem gambling: 1-3 criteria met

Mild disordered gambling: 4–5 criteria met

Moderate disordered gambling: 6-7 criteria met

Severe disordered gambling: 8–9 criteria met

Needs to gamble with increasing amounts of money in order to achieve the desired excitement
Restless or irritable when attempting to cut down or stop gambling
Repeated unsuccessful efforts to control, cut back, or stop gambling
Often preoccupied with gambling (e.g. having constant thoughts of reliving past gambling experiences, hindering or planning the next venture, thinking of ways to get money to gamble with)
Often gambles when feeling distressed (e.g. helpless, guilty, anxious, depressed)
After losing money gambling, often returns another day to get even (“chasing” one’s losses)
Lies to conceal the extent of involvement with gambling
Has jeopardized or lost a significant relationship, job, or educational or career opportunity because of gambling
Relies on others to provide money to relieve desperate financial situations caused by gambling

Additionally, gambling behaviour can lead to significant mood changes such as feeling unusually happy or on the other hand, highly irritable. These mood shifts can last more than a day and may extend for weeks or longer.

Wonder if you might be experiencing gambling addiction? Try answering these questions.

Have you ever lied to prevent people from discovering your problem with gambling?
Do you gamble with money you can’t afford to lose (e.g. rent money, grocery money, etc.)?
Have you ever borrowed a large sum of money from a friend or loved one and lied about what it was for?
Have you ever traded your possessions or stolen things from others in exchange for gambling money?
Do you find yourself gambling more to win back losses?
Have you taken your gambling online in an attempt to hide your gambling activity?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you should consider seeking help for your gambling problem.

FACING A GAMBLING
PROBLEM?

Here's what
to do next

Depending on the severity, you can consider trying these self‑help strategies:

Reduce access or frequency of gambling

Curb or gradually reduce visits to gambling venues or online sites, and schedule other activities to avoid gambling. This self exclusion order or visit limit form to the casino through the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) website may be helpful.

Curbing the amount to gamble

You can consider leaving credit and ATM cards at home and bring only minimal cash. Once the money is lost, it is a sign to leave the venue.

Avoid alcohol or substances before gambling to avoid impulsive decisions.

Focus on developing healthy coping mechanisms

Engage in activities you enjoy, explore ways to develop healthy coping mechanisms, or seek professional therapy to learn effective strategies tailored to your needs.

Set a cut-off date for these self‑help strategies

You should set a cut-off date to try these self-help strategies. If these measures fail to reduce or curb your gambling problems by their stipulated cut-off date, seek professional help.

Set a cut-off date for these self‑help strategies

You should set a cut-off date to try these self-help strategies. If these measures fail to reduce or curb your gambling problems by their stipulated cut-off date, seek professional help.

If you are not sure where to turn to, reach out for help by calling the All Addictions Helpline at 6‑7326837 (6‑RECOVER) or visit the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) website to look at the listed community resources to help you and your families who may be affected by gambling addiction. Remember, there is no shame in reaching out for help. With the right support, you can save your life, career and family.

Treatment

Treatment for gambling addiction typically involves both individual and group therapy. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is effective in managing the condition, and self-help models like SMART Recovery can provide additional support.

SMART Recovery is a 4-step programme that is designed to help individuals overcome their problems with gambling addiction, focusing on:

Enhancing and maintaining motivation to quit
Coping with urges
Managing problems
Lifestyle Balance

Find out more about SMART Recovery here.

Group therapy is another effective approach that works great for many and individuals can go through WE CARE Community Services or National Addiction Management Services (NAMS) clinic. Many individuals choose to partner with a behavioural services facility to find the right balance of inpatient and outpatient care.

Finding Support:
Mental health services

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling addiction, consider reaching out to one of the following resources:

National Addictions Management Service (NAMS)

Visit www.nams.sg
Call the All Addictions Helpline at 6‑7326837 (6‑RECOVER)
Operating hours: Everyday 8:30am‑9:00pm (inclusive of public holiday)

We Care

National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG)

Available daily from 8am to 11pm:

Helpline: 1800-666 8668*
*Airtime charges apply for mobile calls to 1800 service lines.
Webchat: https://go.gov.sg/ncpg-webchat

First Stop for Mental Health

National mindline
(24-hour)

1-771

6669-1771

In-person services

CREST

CHAT (for individuals aged 16-30)

Digital

mindline.sg

National mindline
(24-hour)

In-person services

Digital

Alternatively, you can click here to explore mental health resources and services located near you.

References

Understanding smoking addiction

There may be moments where one reaches for a cigarette, despite knowing the potential harm. Smoking and using e-cigarettes carry risks to our health and to those around us. The nicotine in these products is highly addictive, making the journey feel particularly challenging.

The real dangers of smoking come from tar and other carcinogens found in tobacco. These harmful substances can lead to various cancers, heart disease, and stroke. And it’s not just what smoking does to our bodies—loved ones who are exposed to second-hand smoke face health risks as well.

One might think, “Well, I’m using e-cigarettes, they don’t contain tobacco, so it’s not as harmful.” Unfortunately, that isn’t the case. E-cigarettes still contain fine particulate matter (PM) and carcinogens, as well as metals like nickel, tin and lead from the device itself, which can lead to lung injuries. Furthermore, in Singapore, e-cigarettes are illegal, with fines of up to $2,000.

What is smoking addiction?

How does nicotine
affect you?

How does nicotine affect you?

Nicotine gets its hooks into us quickly. It affects our brains almost immediately, creating a tough cycle to break. We might find ourselves smoking just to feel ‘normal’, and before we know it, we’re caught in a pattern that feels impossible to escape.

What puts us at risk?

Anyone who uses nicotine or tobacco-containing products is at risk of developing an addiction. Here are some factors that might increase this risk:

Family history of smoking
Smoking at a young age—our brain is still developing in adolescence, thus, children and youths are more susceptible to nicotine addiction compared to adults¹⁹

Common
misconceptions

01 l am a casual smoker, smoking one or two cigarettes a day is not very harmful.

What people may think:

I am a casual smoker, smoking one or two cigarettes a day is not very harmful.

Did you know?
Even light smoking can significantly increase our risk of serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke¹⁶, and death¹⁷.

02 Rolling my own cigarettes (Bidis) is less dangerous.

What people may think:

Rolling my own cigarettes (Bidis) is less dangerous.

Did you know?
Bidis often contain more carbon monoxide, particulate matter, and nicotine compared to traditional cigarettes. It is as harmful as manufactured ones, if not more.

03 Vaping (E-cigarettes) is safe because it doesnt have tar.

What people may think:

Vaping (E-cigarettes) is safe because it doesn’t have tar

Did you know?
Aerosols found in vapes contain many harmful substances such as fine particulate matter, carcinogens, and metal nanoparticles.

04 Vaping is healthier than smoking.

What people may think:

Vaping is healthier than smoking.

Did you know?
Vaping still exposes us to toxic substances and maintains nicotine addiction. Furthermore, as these are relatively new products, its harms may only surface many years later.

05 Vaping can help me quit smoking.

What people may think:

Vaping can help me quit smoking.

Did you know?
There isn’t enough evidence¹⁸ to suggest that vaping is an effective way to stop smoking. In some cases, it may just replace one addictive habit with another.

Signs we may have smoking addiction

If you or someone you care about is experiencing these symptoms, it might be time to consider reaching out for help.

Signs we may have smoking addiction

If you or someone you care about is experiencing these symptoms, it might be time to consider reaching out for help:

Struggling to reduce or stop smoking and vaping.
Experiencing withdrawal symptoms like irritability, anxiety, or depression when trying to quit
Continuing to smoke despite health issues.
Giving up recreational activities, family time or socialising with others because of inability to smoke in certain situations.

Diagnosis

A healthcare professional can diagnose nicotine dependence through a detailed clinical interview about the individual’s medical history, current symptoms, and how tobacco use is affecting their lives. The individual may also have to fill out a questionnaire to assess how dependent they are on nicotine.¹¹

A GUIDE TO

Additional support for quitting smoking and vaping

I Quit Programme

Start to S.T.O.P.

Start to S.T.O.P. (Speak To Our Pharmacists) is a quit smoking programme championed by the Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore (PSS) Community Chapter. It is a nationwide collaborative effort by community pharmacy chains Guardian, Unity and Watsons to help you quit smoking and improve your health.

Learn more about this programme and select a location that is convenient for you.

I Quit Programme

This tailored programme supports individuals through their quitting process by taking their lifestyle, habits, and level of smoking dependence into consideration. Tools available include daily SMS tips, weekly calls from trained QuitLine advisors or weekly face-to-face counselling sessions with health specialists.

For those who prefer to quit on their own without any programme support, there are resources available on the I Quit website where smokers and vapers can find out more tips on how to quit.

Smokers and vapers can also join I Quit club on Facebook featuring real-life testimonials from ex-smokers on their tips on quitting smoking to inspire others to start on their quit journey.

Smokers and vapers not on the I Quit programme may also contact HPB’s QuitLine advisors directly at 1800 438 2000* (Mon-Fri 8am-5pm) if they require additional ad hoc support.

*Airtime charges apply for mobile calls to 1800 service lines.

Remember, it’s okay to take more time off for yourself to manage this journey. Quitting smoking/vaping is a significant challenge, but with the right support and strategies, we can overcome it. Reach out to loved ones or professionals when you need help. You’re not alone in this.

Treatment

Combining counselling with medical treatments like Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) can be very effective. NRT is available in forms such as patches, gum, or lozenges and helps manage the cravings with withdrawal symptoms we might face when trying to quit smoking.

Individuals are advised to speak to their doctor before starting treatment. Together, they can explore which treatment best suits the individual.

Finding Support:
Mental health services

If you or someone you know is struggling with smoking addiction, consider reaching out to one of the following resources:

National Addictions Management Service (NAMS)

Visit www.nams.sg
Call the All Addictions Helpline at 6‑7326837 (6‑RECOVER)
Operating hours: Everyday 8:30am‑9:00pm (inclusive of public holiday)

We Care

First Stop for Mental Health

National mindline
(24-hour)

1-771

6669-1771

In-person services

CREST

CHAT (for individuals aged 16-30)

Digital

mindline.sg

National mindline
(24-hour)

In-person services

Digital

Alternatively, you can click here to explore mental health resources and services located near you.

References

Understanding internet and gaming addiction

These days, it’s easy to feel like we’re always online. When used in moderation, the internet and online gaming can be fun and helpful. But have you ever wondered if it’s too much? Sometimes, what starts as a harmless habit can grow into something that disrupts our daily lives and even turns into an addiction.

What is internet and gaming addiction?

An internet and gaming addiction is when we spend too much time on the internet, playing online games, or browsing social media to the point it affects our daily life. This is not limited to computers—it includes any device with internet access like our phones or tablets.

Excessive use of the internet or games can have a life-changing impact on us. It could affect our work performance and strain relationships with our loved ones. Over time, this can lead to health issues like poor sleep, reduced physical activity, or neglecting personal care.

What puts us
at risk?

What puts us at risk?

Certain factors can increase the risk of developing an internet or gaming addiction:

Demographic factors

Males⁶
Younger individuals⁷

Personality traits

Loneliness and introversion
Low self-esteem

Behavioural patterns

Spending large amounts of money on games⁸
Increasing gaming time
Being part of gaming communities

Psychological factors⁹

Impulsivity and/or having attention difficulties¹⁰
Low self-control
High levels of anxiety
Depressive symptoms and/or being socially isolated¹¹

Common
misconceptions

01 Spending a lot of time on the internet or games means that I am addicted.

What people may think:

Spending a lot of time on the internet or games means that I am addicted.

Did you know?
It is not just about the time spent online. To be diagnosed with a disorder, excessive use of the internet or games must disrupt your daily life and functioning.

02 Excessive internet or gaming is not as dangerous as substance addictions like alcohol, drugs, or smoking.

What people may think:

Excessive internet or gaming is not as dangerous as substance addictions like alcohol, drugs, or smoking.

Did you know?
Excessive use of the internet or games can lead to serious consequences, such as job loss or damaged relationships, like the impact of substance addiction.

Signs we may have internet and gaming addiction

Preoccupation with gaming or online activities
Becoming sad, irritable or violent if the individual is unable to access the internet or games
Increased time spent online to achieve satisfaction
Failed attempts to reduce usage
Neglecting responsibilities and personal care
Deceiving others about time spent online
Using the internet or games to escape negative emotions (e.g. guilt and hopelessness)
Risking relationships or school/work opportunities due to excessive use

Diagnosis

A healthcare professional can diagnose internet or gaming addiction through a detailed clinical interview. The assessment will explore the individual’s internet and gaming habits, current symptoms, and how these behaviours impact daily life.

Treatment

Treatment for internet and gaming addiction often focuses on modifying behaviour rather than complete abstinence. During therapy, the individual and counsellor will work together to develop strategies to manage and reduce excessive online activity. This approach is different from other addictions, where stopping the behaviour entirely might be recommended

Finding Support:
Mental health services

If you or someone you know is struggling with internet or gaming addiction, consider reaching out to one of the following resources:

National Addictions Management Service (NAMS)

Visit www.nams.sg
Call the All Addictions Helpline at 6‑7326837 (6‑RECOVER)
Operating hours: Everyday 8:30am‑9:00pm (inclusive of public holiday)

We Care

First Stop for Mental Health

National mindline
(24-hour)

1-771

6669-1771

In-person services

CREST

CHAT (for individuals aged 16-30)

Digital

mindline.sg

National mindline
(24-hour)

In-person services

Digital

Alternatively, you can click here to explore mental health resources and services located near you.

References

CONTRIBUTED BY

Health Promotion Board