Just a habit…or an addiction?
Perhaps you consider yourself an occasional or recreational user of alcohol or other substances – just to relax or have fun. It doesn’t necessarily cause problems.
Are you unsure whether your habit might be an addiction? For example, are you always thinking about alcohol, social media, sex, or drugs? Or are you glued to your phone? Would you like to reduce your use or get it under control, but are unable to do so?
It may not be easy to admit this. The fact that you are on this page is already a good step. Here, you can read about what you can do yourself and where you can go for support.
When you think of ‘addictive substances,’ drugs and alcohol immediately come to mind. There are many other addictive substances, however, such as smoking or vaping, medication (e.g. misuse of Ritalin), gaming, gambling (online or in person), and sex.
Free online self-help modules
Would you like to get started with reliable, free online self-support at home? University of Groningen students can use the NewHealth online platform anonymously and free of charge. There is a variety of topics to choose from, such as:
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Alcohol
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In control of your smartphone!
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Quitting or cutting down cannabis use
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Quitting smoking (only available in Dutch)
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Game check (only available in Dutch)
Training courses and workshops
Would you prefer to attend a training course or workshop? The University of Groningen Student Service Centre (SSC) offers valuable training sessions and workshops focused on student well-being. The Break Your Habits training is currently available on request. Get in touch or explore the other training sessions and workshops offered by the SSC using the button below.
Seek help or support from experts
Are you looking for help or support with your substance use or concerns about developing an addiction? As a University of Groningen student, you are always welcome to discuss any questions or concerns with the student psychologists at the Student Service Centre. When treatment for addiction-related issues is needed, the student psychologists will usually refer you to external services, such as Kick your Habits or VNN.
The following organizations offer direct support for addiction-related issues, and the websites listed below provide further information about addiction and substance use.
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Verslavingszorg Noord Nederland (VNN) offers free and anonymous consultations. The consultations are non-binding, and you do not need a referral from a GP. You can also chat with a professional on the VNN website, which also provides more information about help and support.
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Kick your habits is another organization in Groningen that offers help for addiction problems.
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Test your gaming behaviour and read more about gaming addiction on the gaming website from the Trimbos Institute.
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Gaming Addicts Anonymous is an online support community for computer gaming addicts.
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How is your gambling behaviour? Take the test at loketkansspel.nl. The website allows you to contact a counsellor anonymously and free of charge.
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Would you like to quit smoking or vaping, or get tips on how to stick with it? Visit ikstopnu.nl.
Is your addiction affecting your academic progress?
Your study advisor is there for you. Any information you discuss is confidential.
Are you concerned about someone close to you?
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Reach out: ask them about it openly and without judgment. Express your concerns, and let them know that you are there for them.
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Verslavingszorg Noord Nederland (VNN) offers free and anonymous consultations. The consultations are non-binding, and you do not need a referral from a GP. You can also chat with a professional on the VNN website, which also provides more information about help and support.
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Stichting Naast offers support to people close to someone with an addiction.