Caffeine: Addiction Hidden in Plain Sight
When the topic of addiction arises in conversation, it’s often the most extreme types that come to mind, such as alcohol, gambling, cannabis, and heroin. These are the addictions seen commonly in the media.
However, there is a sneaky addiction hidden in our daily lives, that many of us would not be able to go a day without, known as caffeine.
The Dependence on Caffeine: Is Caffeine Addictive?
As a society, our daily dependence on caffeine is just part of our routine, most employees would openly admit to not being able to survive without their morning cup of tea or coffee.
In fact, many people would probably say they aren’t themselves without their coffee. People don’t feel themselves unless they’re on a stimulant drug.
People have come to depend on taking caffeine, in its different forms, and the feeling and energy it seems to give them.
Why Doesn’t Caffeine Have the Stigma?
Caffeine doesn’t have the same stigma in society as many other drugs, no matter the quantity of the drug consumed daily. Even other legal drugs, like alcohol and nicotine, aren’t given the same pass that caffeine is.
The reasons for this could be due to caffeine being well-integrated into our lifestyles; you can’t walk down the high street for long without seeing a café or coffee shop. As well as in our work lives, with the majority of employees heading for the kettle first thing.
Caffeine is known for increasing focus and concentration, in the same way that alcohol is known for helping feel more relaxed, yet it’s also known that it’s not good to have a dependence on alcohol.
A Global Caffeine Addiction
This dependence on caffeine, most commonly in the form of coffee, is a worldwide occurrence. With coffee being in the morning routine of many people around the globe.
A study on International Coffee Habits conducted by Versa Networks, across 25 countries, found that 63.8% of people overall would rather give up alcohol than coffee for a year.
Caffeine almost seems inescapable, being well-ingrained in the UK, throughout Europe, and even across the pond!
The Disadvantages of Caffeine Addiction
There is a range of potential negative affections associated with a caffeine addiction. Such as:
- Anxiety and increased heart rate.
- Restlessness.
- Irritability or agitation.
- Trouble sleeping or insomnia.
- Digestive issues.
- High blood pressure.
- Tremors.
Physical dependence on caffeine may also result in withdrawal symptoms, which may result in several negative effects, including:
- Tiredness and irritability.
- Low mood.
- Trouble concentrating.
- Headaches
- Lack of energy or alertness.
- Dizziness or feeling shaky.
Get Support for Your Addiction
Here at New Leaf Recovery, our website is a helpful resource for those looking to find out more. Whether caffeine is something you struggle with or any other addiction, we can provide the support you need.
Additionally, if you notice that a friend or loved one could be struggling with an addiction of any kind, reach out to us and we can be your helping hand.
