Defining Addiction

What Is Addiction? Definition of a Life-Altering Problem | If You Fit the Definition of Addiction, Call Now to Get Customized Treatment

If you’re thinking about the behavior of yourself or a loved one and wondering, “What is the definition of addiction?”, it’s likely that you already have an idea for the answer. Addiction is a condition that can tear families apart and ruin otherwise bright futures if it is not treated. Perhaps due to these powerful consequences, addiction is commonly misunderstood. Examining the addiction definition can be helpful in addressing misguided assumptions and can provide new insight as to why an addiction develops and how it can be successfully treated.

What Is the Definition of Addiction?

Defining addiction can help provide a more thorough understanding of its causes and the necessary professional treatment. Addiction is when an individual continues to use a drug or alcohol, usually to excess, despite negative physical, emotional, and social consequences. During this use, the chemical activity of the brain is altered in such a way that the addict may find it almost impossible to function without the substance. Unfortunately, these changes may be semi-permanent and can induce the addict to act in unhealthy or unwise ways. The addict may attempt to reduce their consumption, only to find themselves dedicating most of their time and resources to obtaining more. Family, work, and friends may all be forsaken in order to keep up with the addiction.

In instances such as this, it is easy to be hurt by someone’s addiction and the behaviors that arise as a symptom of that use. Remember that addiction is a disease and that your loved one may not be able to control their actions as they once did.

What Causes Addiction?

People can be addicted to many things, including drugs, alcohol, or behaviors such as gambling. No matter how you define addiction, the causes behind this compulsion are likely to be similar. In the case of substance abuse, many different genetic components can make individuals more susceptible to addiction. However, an individual’s personal environment can also play a role in whether or not addiction develops. Family attitudes toward drug use, for example, can influence whether someone ever starts to use. If an individual experiences a particularly traumatic event, they may turn to drugs or alcohol as an easily accessible means to try to suppress the new, negative feelings or thoughts.

Addiction cannot be cured, not in the sense that the disorder can be permanently erased or healed. However, it can be managed.

How Do I Know if I Meet the Addiction Definition?

If you are experiencing frequent cravings for a drug or alcohol, spend excessive amounts of money and time obtaining the substance, experience symptoms of withdrawal when you try to quit using, and find yourself unable to meet family or work responsibilities, then you might be an addict, as these behaviors are the ones that most commonly define addiction.

We offer free clinical assessments to help you get a better grasp of your unique situation and find the treatment program that will be the best solution for you. Many addictions require a dual-diagnosis approach, so be sure that the treatment center you select offers the personalized programming you deserve. Our private facility specializes in customized patient care overseen by board-certified doctors, nurses, and counselors.

For more information on the causes, treatment, or definition of addiction or to get help, call our 24/7 phone line or fill out our form here.