According to the World Drug Report of the United Nations, published in June 2023, over 296 million people used drugs in 2021 globally. They point out it is a 23% increase over the previous decade while the number of people suffering from drug use disorders skyrocketed to 39.5 million, a 45% increase over ten years. They further warn the illicit drugs market has continued to expand with a dominant rise in synthetic drugs worldwide, causing unprecedented destruction to people’s lives.
Addiction can be divided into two forms: substance use disorders, for example, alcohol or class A drugs and behavioural addictions, for example, overeating, sex or gambling. Addiction is a chronic condition that often affects many areas of your life, including mental health, relationships, career and physical health. It often robs you of everything you once stood for in life; however, addictions are treatable when you are ready to receive help and guidance. Therefore, it is crucial to seek help as soon as you can when the addiction takes hold of you and your life.