Olivia Medina has an addiction. One that has ruined personal relationships, friendships and overall the reality of her entire world. After her boyfriend recently broke up with her (over her not so secret addiction), she sat down and reflected on what it is about her addiction that makes her so happy.
In Australia, depression and anxiety disorders affect approximately 3.4 million people, or 17% of the population, and rates are growing among young people. Addiction can be both a symptom of illnesses such as anxiety and depression, and an escape from them. There are a number of factors that contribute to addiction, including genetics, mental health issues, social factors, childhood trauma, abuse and more.
Initially thrilled by her newfound happiness, Olivia’s friends quickly became worried when she started avoiding them and missing social events in order to engage in activities related to her addiction. One friend, Holly Potter, said, “she’s just not the same girl anymore and I think it’s taking over her life. She can’t have a simple conversation without her talking about it and it really is eating her alive and it hasn’t helped her mental health at all.”
So, after the reality of her boyfriend ending their relationship, the loss of many friendships, the distance in support from her family and the many other issues she has faced, is it all worth it? As she contemplates the consequences of her addiction, she must confront a critical question. Can she reclaim her life from the grip of her new obsession, or will it continue to drive her further into isolation?