MindSG

Explore our suite of self-care tools and resources to help you better understand and manage your mental health.

CONTRIBUTED BY

Health Promotion Board

Understanding addictions

As teenagers, we may experience a lot of big changes, like going through puberty, and moving from primary to secondary school. We may also be figuring out how to be more independent and handle new responsibilities. With so much going on, it’s normal to feel stressed and overwhelmed sometimes. But these stressors can 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 gambling addiction

We might think that gambling is something only older people participate in, making them more likely to develop a gambling problem. However, young persons can also be at risk, as gambling can feel like a rite of passage, much like drinking or smoking. While teens with a gambling addiction may not face severe financial debts due to limited access to credit, they may be at a higher risk of borrowing money illegally.

Research shows that young males are more likely to develop gambling issues, as they tend to be greater risk-takers compared to females. Unlike adults, teens often gamble on card games, video games, or pool, without realising these activities qualify as gambling.

Gambling involves risking something of value, like money, on uncertain outcomes, meaning activities like betting on sports, e-sports, or using gaming skins and loot-boxes also count. While no single factor causes gambling addiction, early exposure and easy access to gambling are common triggers, especially for risk-taking and impulsive teens.

Read more about gambling and its common misconceptions.

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 such as spending monthly allowance on gambling and not having enough for daily expenses
Facing legal issues, like criminal charges for underage gambling, which may result in fines and community service
Failing to fulfil important life roles such as being a student, friend, or family member, etc.
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.

Online gambling is especially appealing to teens, as these platforms often lack proper age-checks and are easily accessible.

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 whose peers or family members frequently gamble.
Personality factors
- Higher sensitivity to rejection
- Reduced resistance to peer influence

Common
misconceptions

01 Gambling isn’t as serious as substance use like alcohol and drugs.

What people may think:

Gambling isn’t as serious as substance use like alcohol and drugs.

Did you know?
Gambling can lead to serious issues like low moods, poor school performance, and even dropping out. Youths may also get involved in illegal activities, like being a “runner” for illegal gambling, with serious legal consequences.

02 Gambling only happens in physical venues.

What people may think:

Gambling only happens in physical venues.

Did you know?
Most gambling now happens online, through activities like sports betting, card games, loot boxes, and e-sports. These virtual platforms are easily accessible, often without proper age checks, making it easier for teens to participate.

03 Teens don’t have much money to gamble and lack access to financial resources.

What people may think:

Teens don’t have much money to gamble and lack access to financial resources.

Did you know?
While teens may not have direct access to large sums, many gambling sites illegally sets up accounts for them. Teens may also borrow money from friends and family to gamble, increasing their risk.

04 I’m safe from gambling addiction since I don’t play games that require real money.

What people may think:

I’m safe from gambling addiction since I don’t play games that require real money.

Did you know?
Many games feature gambling-like mechanics, such as spinning wheels or slot machines that offer rewards based on chance.

Social casino games, through free-to-play, simulate gambling and have shown to increase the likelihood of future gambling problems. Even when real money isn’t involved, time spent on these games can lead to problematic gambling behaviour.

05 I can easily spot gambling—it’s obvious, like betting or slot machines.

What people may think:

I can easily spot gambling—it’s obvious, like betting or slot machines.

Did you know?
Some forms of gambling are less obvious. Arcade games and free-to-play games often use addictive mechanics that encourage players to spend large amounts of money without realising they are engaging in gambling-like behaviour.

Signs we may have gambling addiction

Behavioural Signs

Neglecting self-care, personal responsibilities, school or family tasks
Regularly late or absent for school
Missing family events and skipping out on outings with friends
Stop doing things that were previously enjoyed
Frequently thinking and talking about gambling
Cheat, steal or borrow to gamble or pay debts

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 from friends and family but never repaying them
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. allowance for meals and personal expenses)?
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 taking steps to help yourself or seeking help from trusted adults or professionals for your gambling problem.

FACING A GAMBLING
PROBLEM?

Here is what
to do next

Depending on the severity of the issue, individuals can consider trying these self‑help strategies:

Reduce access or frequency of gambling

Curb or gradually reduce the frequency of visiting physical or online gambling sites, games or venues and participation in gambling activities.

Curbing the amount to gamble

Reminding oneself that when they lose money, they should take conscious steps to stop gambling.

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 gambling is driven by peer pressure, it's important to recognise the influence of the social circle and take steps to distance oneself from situations where gambling is encouraged or normalised. Seeking support from trusted friends, family, or a mentor can provide the necessary encouragement and guidance to step away from such influences and make healthier choices.

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. 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 tactic that works great for many and individuals can go through WE CARE Community Services or National Addiction Management Services (NAMS) clinic. Many problem gamblers 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)
ReLive is a treatment programme at the National Addictions Management Service (NAMS) for adolescents aged 13-18 years old.

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.

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

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 smoking addiction and vaping

While vaping and underage smoking are illegal in Singapore, some individuals may still engage in these activities. 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.

Vaping has grown in popularity in recent years. It involves inhaling vapour produced by e-cigarettes, which heats a liquid often containing nicotine, flavourings, and chemicals. Vaping is often seen as socially acceptable and mistakenly considered safer than smoking, especially with its variety of flavours, discreet nature and lack of tobacco smell, which also adds to its appeal.

However, experts say there is insufficient evidence that vaping is safer than traditional smoking. Nicotine in both cigarettes and e-cigarettes is addictive, and all nicotine products are harmful, whether or not they contain tobacco. The best approach is to avoid both smoking and vaping.

Many people use vaping or smoking to manage stress, but research shows they can actually worsen stress, anxiety, and mental health conditions like depression. Protecting one's well-being involves learning about the risks of vaping and smoking, recognising signs of addiction, and seeking the right support to quit.

What is smoking addiction and vaping?

Have you ever felt like you just can’t quit, no matter how hard you try? That’s what smoking addiction—also known as Nicotine Dependence feels like. We find ourselves unable to stop using tobacco or nicotine products, even when we know they’re doing us harm. Simply put, this occurs when a person develops a reliance on nicotine.

In comparison, while vaping isn’t officially classified as an addiction, it’s important to protect ourselves from potential risks. Vapes can contain nicotine, which is highly addictive and may lead to dependence. As vaping is still relatively new, the long-term effects remain unclear.

How does nicotine
affect you?

How does nicotine affect you?

When we struggle with nicotine addiction, we may experience cravings and withdrawal symptoms like restlessness, irritability, anxiety, depression, trouble concentrating, and difficulty sleeping. Over time, tolerance increases, leading to continued or heavier use despite the harm.

Since the brain develops until age 25, nicotine use during this period can impair memory, attention, and learning. It also increases the risk of anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts.

Vaping produces hazardous chemicals like acetaldehyde (used in disinfectants) and formaldehyde (found in paints). Ingesting these substances can contribute to lung and heart diseases. We wouldn’t knowingly consume these chemicals, yet vaping leads to their inhalation.

What puts us at risk?

Smoking addiction

Anyone who uses nicotine or tobacco-containing products, such as cigarettes or vapes, 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 continues to develop until the age of 25, thus, children and youths are more susceptible to nicotine addiction compared to adults.¹⁹

Vaping

Here are some reasons why individuals may engage in vaping:

Peer influence: Peer pressure is one of the main reasons people start vaping. When their friends vape, individuals may feel compelled to join in to fit into the group.
Concealability: Vapes come in discreet designs and don’t emit the strong smell of tobacco, making them easier to hide compared to traditional cigarettes.
Flavours: Vapes are available in a variety of appealing flavours like candy or fruit, making them attractive to users.
Belief that vaping is less harmful: Some people believe vaping is safer than smoking, but the long-term health effects are still unclear. Misleading marketing, like “nicotine-free” labels on products that may still contain nicotine, can further confuse consumers. Vaping also increases the likelihood of smoking cigarettes later in life.
Coping with stress: Individuals with anxiety or depression are more likely to vape, using it as a way to manage stress.

Hence, make informed decisions. Just because one's friends are vaping, doesn’t mean they have to do it too.

Common
misconceptions

01 It’s just harmless vapour!

What people may think:

02 I won’t get addicted to vaping!

What people may think:

I won’t get addicted to vaping!

Did you know?
Vapes can contain nicotine, an addictive substance also found in cigarettes, sometimes delivering as much or more nicotine than a tobacco cigarette. Vapes may also contain illicit drugs. Even short-term use can cause side effects like dry mouth or throat irritation, headaches, and coughing.

03 Vaping isn’t as bad as smoking, so I’m fine!

What people may think:

Vaping isn’t as bad as smoking, so I’m fine!

Did you know?
Vaping still exposes you to toxic substances and keeps you addicted to nicotine. Since vaping is relatively new, its harms may only surface many years later.

Adolescents who vape are 3.6 times more likely to start smoking cigarettes, and due to unregulated vape juice, vaping may be as harmful as smoking.

04 Everyone vapes or smokes, so it’s okay.

What people may think:

Everyone vapes or smokes, so it’s okay.

Did you know?
Both vaping and underaged smoking are illegal in Singapore. Underaged smokers can be fined up to $300, and vaping—illegal at any age—can lead to fines of up to $2,000.

Signs we may have smoking and vaping 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 and vaping 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.

E-cigarette, or vaping product, use associated lung injury (EVALI)

Vaping can lead to serious respiratory issues that mimic pneumonia or the flu. If you're unsure, consult a medical professional. Watch out for these symptoms:

Breathlessness
Chest discomfort
Coughing
Diarrhoea, vomiting, nausea, or abdominal pain
Shallow, rapid breathing
Fast heartbeat

Talk to a trusted adult, such as your parents, teachers, or school counsellors, to get the help you need. You don’t have to endure poor physical and mental health.

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.

Meanwhile, e-cigarette, or vaping product, use associated lung injury (EVALI) is a diagnosis that involves excluding other diseases as vapes can cause respiratory issues that present as pneumonia or the seasonal flu. The healthcare professional assesses recent e-cigarette use, performs a physical exam, and uses tests like chest X-ray to identify lung abnormalities. Bloodwork may be ordered to eliminate alternative causes of illness.

A GUIDE TO

Additional support for quitting smoking and vaping

Hooked on Nicotine Checklist (HONC)

The HONC is designed to identify the point at which individuals may have lost full autonomy over their use of tobacco. Knowing this, you can reach out and seek help.

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.

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.

Quit Plan

This online tool can be used to guide individuals through five steps to develop a personalised quit plan that will make it easier for them to stay on track to quit vaping.

The 4Ds

Individuals could also try the 4Ds, if they would like to try avoiding smoking or vaping on their own.

The 4Ds

Individuals could also try the 4Ds, if they would like to try avoiding smoking or vaping on their own:

Distract: Distract oneself from the desire to vape by engaging in enjoyable activities at home. Conquer nicotine cravings by focusing on things that bring them joy and a sense of refreshment.
Delay: Delay the urge by watching a brief video or reaching out to a friend. The desire to smoke or vape typically fades away within a few minutes.
Deep Breathing: Focus on one's body and breathing. They can shift their attention from smoking or vaping with a breathing break – this can be done anywhere, anytime!
Drink Water: Instead of reaching for a cigarette or a vape, occupy one’s hands and mouth with a glass of water, milk, or green tea.

Quitting smoking or vaping is easier with a support network. Tell a trusted adult (e.g. parents, teacher, or counsellor) about their intention to quit smoking/vaping and ask the adult to hold them accountable. Individuals should be specific about the support they need and express gratitude. Support goes both ways—checking in with friends can boost everyone's well-being. Research shows that gratitude improves physical and mental health, as well as self-esteem!

Treatment

The treatment for individuals under 18 years old currently centres around behavioural approaches (e.g. through counselling). During counselling, individuals will learn and develop the skills they need to give up tobacco for good. They will also learn techniques they can use to help them stop smoking.

Once individuals turn 18 years old, the treatment process may include a combination of behavioural approaches and pharmacological support (e.g. Nicotine replacement therapy or medications).

Individuals are advised to speak to their doctor before starting treatment. Together, they can explore which treatment best suits the individual. When undergoing NRT, it is important that individuals practice medical adherence as it can increase the likelihood of successful smoking cessation. Lastly, if their parent and other family members smoke or vape too, encourage them to also seek help too.

Finding Support:
Mental health services

If you or someone you know is struggling with smoking + vaping 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)
ReLive is a treatment programme at the National Addictions Management Service (NAMS) for adolescents aged 13-18 years old.

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. Whether we’re scrolling through social media, playing games, or just browsing. When used in moderation, the internet and online gaming can be fun and helpful.

For example, spending time on social media and playing games online can provide us the opportunity to connect with our friends outside of school. However, 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?

What puts us
at risk?

What is internet and gaming addiction?

An internet and gaming addiction is when one spends too much time on the internet or playing online games to the point it affects their daily life. This is not limited to computers—it includes any device with internet access like phones or tablets.

Excessive use of the internet or games can have serious consequences. It may affect performance in school and strain relationships with loved ones. It can also result in poor sleep, loss of appetite, and mood changes, making individuals more likely to feel low or irritable. In some cases, it can cause teens to miss out on important life events and activities.

What puts us at risk?

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

Personality factors
- Loneliness and introversion
- Low self-esteem³
Behavioural patterns
- Spending large amounts of money on games⁴
- Increasing gaming time
- Being part of gaming communities that encourage one to play at odd hours (e.g. friends who play after midnight or live overseas)
- Subscribing to a game pass where one can play all the games owned by the publisher
Psychological factors⁵
- High levels of anxiety
- Avoidant and schizoid personality disorders (e.g. a condition where individuals lack interest and ability to form social relationships)
- High in neuroticism⁶ (e.g. being prone to negative emotions, such as anxiety, depression and moodiness)
Other factors
- Poor parental competence and supervision
- Inconsistent parental behaviour and car

Common
misconceptions

01 Being addicted to the internet and gaming isn’t as serious as being addicted to alcohol and drugs.

What people may think:

Being addicted to the internet and gaming isn’t as serious as being addicted to alcohol and drugs.

Did you know?
Research shows that internet and gaming addiction can cause changes in the brain similar to those seen in alcohol and drug addiction.

02 The internet is a great way to cope when I am feeling down and I can shut the world out.

What people may think:

The internet is a great way to cope when I am feeling down and I can shut the world out.

Did you know?
Using the internet to escape from life’s stressors can be harmful. Excessive use can interfere with important aspects of life, like schoolwork and sleep, leading to addiction if not monitored.

03 I can be anyone I want to online—it’s totally safe.

What people may think:

I can be anyone I want to online—it’s totally safe.

Did you know?
The internet and gaming have risks. Digital footprints can reveal your identity, allowing others to track you and potentially exploit you in the real world. There have been numerous cases where one’s virtual identity was stolen and misused.

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 (e.g. insufficient exercise and sleep, poor nutrition from skipping meals and disrupted sleep)
Deterioration in one’s school performance
Deceiving others about time spent online
Using the internet or games to escape negative emotions (e.g. guilt and hopelessness)
Risking relationships or school 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. Additionally, the individual must exhibit the above signs and symptoms for at least 12 months in order to fulfil the diagnostic criteria for internet and gaming disorder.

A GUIDE TO

Preventing internet and
gaming addiction

Moderation is key

Set healthy limits for internet and gaming use.

Be self-aware

Track emotions, thoughts, and behaviours. Recognise when it’s time for a break.

Set time limits

Instead of eliminating internet use completely, schedule specific time slots for online activities. There are apps that can help manage screen time.

Explore alternatives

Engage in other activities like studying, hobbies, or exercise to shift focus away from excessive gaming or internet use.

Spend time with others

Being physically present with friends or family can help reduce the urge to go online or play games.

Understand their motivation

Identify why they spend time online or gaming and find substitute activities that meet similar needs (e.g. in-person activities like sports or board games with friends).

Substitute activities

Try in-person activities like sports or board games with friends as a healthy alternative to online gaming.

Stay safe online

Extended internet and social media use can put one at risk of online harms. Learn how to keep yourself safe with positive screen use habits.
Discover here

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)
ReLive is a treatment programme at the National Addictions Management Service (NAMS) for adolescents aged 13-18 years old.

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

MindSG

Understanding addictions

Who is this for?

What are addictions?

Types of addictions

Gambling

Smoking + Vaping

Internet + Gaming

Understanding gambling addiction

Understanding gambling addiction

What is gambling addiction?

What is gambling addiction?

What puts us at risk?

What puts us at risk?

Common misconceptions

01

Gambling isn’t as serious as substance use like alcohol and drugs.

What people may think:

02

Gambling only happens in physical venues.

What people may think:

03

Teens don’t have much money to gamble and lack access to financial resources.

What people may think:

04

I’m safe from gambling addiction since I don’t play games that require real money.

What people may think:

05

I can easily spot gambling—it’s obvious, like betting or slot machines.

What people may think:

Signs we may have gambling addiction

Signs we may have gambling addiction

Diagnosis

Diagnosis

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

FACING A GAMBLING PROBLEM?

Here is what to do next

Reduce access or frequency of gambling

Curbing the amount to gamble

Focus on developing healthy coping mechanisms

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

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

Treatment

Treatment

Finding Support: Mental health services

National Addictions Management Service (NAMS)

We Care

National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG)

First Stop for Mental Health

Understanding smoking addiction and vaping

Understanding smoking addiction and vaping

What is smoking addiction and vaping?

What is smoking addiction and vaping?

How does nicotine affect you?

How does nicotine affect you?

What puts us at risk?

What puts us at risk?

Common misconceptions

01

It’s just harmless vapour!

What people may think:

02

I won’t get addicted to vaping!

What people may think:

03

Vaping isn’t as bad as smoking, so I’m fine!

What people may think:

04

Everyone vapes or smokes, so it’s okay.

What people may think:

Signs we may have smoking and vaping addiction

Signs we may have smoking and vaping addiction

Diagnosis

A GUIDE TO

Additional support for quitting smoking and vaping

Hooked on Nicotine Checklist (HONC)

Start to S.T.O.P.

Quit Plan

The 4Ds

The 4Ds

Common
misconceptions

FACING A GAMBLING
PROBLEM?

Here is what
to do next

Finding Support:
Mental health services

How does nicotine
affect you?

Common
misconceptions

Finding Support:
Mental health services

What puts us
at risk?

Common
misconceptions

Preventing internet and
gaming addiction

Finding Support:
Mental health services