"I have worked with people who have battled several different addictions. One common addiction that many people are not familiar with is food addiction. Unfortunately, it is almost as difficult to overcome that addiction is it is to overcome substances such as meth. Additionally, many people who are overcoming substance addictions often develop food addiction as a way of coping with their craving for drugs."

"I have actually spent some time working with clients with gambling addictions. It is really quite devastating to see the effect that lack of control over this addiction can bring to the lives of those who are addicted. I once had a client who lost his family's home because he used the deed for the home to fund his gambling addiction and he lost it all. When he finally hit rock bottom, he checked himself into rehab so that he could be separated from any triggers and start to learn some coping mechanisms."

"In my career, I have had an opportunity to work with people who are fighting several addiction disorders. One of the most common addictions in society today is that of methamphetamine. Meth is highly addictive and one of the most difficult addictions to overcome. With continued use, a meth addict can appear to be many years older than he/she really is because of the physical effects that are a result of the addiction. Their hair thins and they lose weight. Teeth rot resulting in what is referred to as 'meth mouth.' Also, because meth often causes hallucinations where the user thinks that there are bugs in their skin, they often have sores on their body from picking at the skin to get rid of the bugs. This is referred to as 'meth mites.' A common saying among addiction counselors and providers is 'Meth is death.' This is because many people who become addicted to this dangerous drug often feel they cannot live without it. Their use goes from smoking to shooting up and many of them die."