Addiction

Addiction' is a complex condition, a brain disease that is manifested by compulsive substance use despite harmful consequence. People with addiction (severe substance use disorder) have an intense focus on using a certain substance(s), such as alcohol or drugs, to the point that it takes over their life.

Addiction and dependence glossary
addiction – a biopsychosocial disorder characterized by persistent use of drugs (including alcohol) despite substantial harm and adverse consequences addictive drug – psychoactive substances that with repeated use are associated with significantly higher rates of substance use disorders, due in large part to the drug's effect on brain reward systems dependence – an adaptive state associated with a withdrawal syndrome upon cessation of repeated exposure to a stimulus (e.g., drug intake) drug sensitization or reverse tolerance – the escalating effect of a drug resulting from repeated administration at a given dose drug withdrawal – symptoms that occur upon cessation of repeated drug use physical dependence – dependence that involves persistent physical–somatic withdrawal symptoms (e.g., fatigue and delirium tremens) psychological dependence – dependence that involves emotional–motivational withdrawal symptoms (e.g., dysphoria and anhedonia) reinforcing stimuli – stimuli that increase the probability of repeating behaviors paired with them rewarding stimuli – stimuli that the brain interprets as intrinsically positive and desirable or as something to approach sensitization – an amplified response to a stimulus resulting from repeated exposure to it substance use disorder – a condition in which the use of substances leads to clinically and functionally significant impairment or distress tolerance – the diminishing effect of a drug resulting from repeated administration at a given dose

Overview

The term addiction does not only refer to dependence on substances such as heroin or cocaine. A person who cannot stop taking a particular drug or chemical has a substance dependence.

Types of Addiction

Substance Addiction

• Alcoholism
• Tobacco addiction
• Opioid addiction
• Cannabis addiction
• Cocaine addiction
• Amphetamine addiction

Behavioral Addiction

• Gambling addiction
• Sex addiction
• Internet addiction
• Video game addiction
• Food addiction
• Exercise addiction

Pathophysiology

Addiction affects the brain's reward, motivation, memory, and related circuitry. Dysfunction in these circuits leads to characteristic biological, psychological, social, and spiritual manifestations. This is reflected in an individual pathologically pursuing reward and/or relief by substance use and other behaviors.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of addiction often involves criteria such as the issues caused by the addiction, the inability to stop the addictive behavior, and the development of tolerance and withdrawal symptoms.

Treatment

Treatment for addiction varies and is tailored to the individual's needs. This could involve counselling, medication, or both. Many people with addiction overcome their addiction with professional help.

Risk Factors

There are several factors that can increase the risk of developing an addiction, including:

• Genetic susceptibility: Genetics account for about half of a person's likelihood to experience addiction. Those with parents or siblings who have struggled with addiction are statistically more likely to develop an addiction.
• Environmental factors: These include cultural attitudes towards drug use, availability of drugs, peer influences, and various life stressors.
• Psychological factors: Individuals with mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety are more likely to experience addiction. Furthermore, individuals with certain personality traits, such as high impulsivity or sensation seeking, may be more prone to addictive behavior.

Prevention

Prevention strategies aim to reduce risk factors and increase protective factors. This can be done through:

• School-based prevention programs: These have been proven to reduce the risk of alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use.
• Community-based programs: Programs that target the community, including parents and families, can also help in preventing substance use disorders.

Prognosis

The prognosis of addiction varies and is largely dependent on the individual's commitment to recovery and adherence to treatment. Some people are able to overcome addiction and lead normal lives, while others may struggle with relapses.

Society and Culture

Addiction has significant societal and cultural implications. It has been linked to crime, unemployment, and domestic violence. Furthermore, the stigma associated with addiction can often prevent individuals from seeking help.

See Also

• Relapse prevention
• Self-help groups for mental health
• Substance abuse prevention
• Substance dependence

References

Addiction Resources
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