There are two types of addiction: addiction to substances and behavioral addiction. Addiction can cause chemical changes in the brain and lead to preoccupation with addictive substances and behaviour, giving up study, work and interests, craving for addictive substances and behaviour and lead to financial problems.

Alcohol dependence (Alcohol Use Disorder) and pathological gambling (Gambling disorder) are common addictions in Hong Kong. Alcohol dependence is an addiction to alcohol (substance), while pathological gambling is an addiction to gambling (behaviour). Our specialist in psychiatry can offer pharmacological and psychological interventions for alcohol dependence and pathological gambling. Our clinic offers a medical assessment of physical health due to chronic alcohol use.