When people hear the word “addiction,” they usually think about drugs. This is because experts often apply the addiction definition to illicit substances. However, research shows that other euphoria-inducing behaviors have addictive potential as well. For example, gambling and shopping could both become problematic. Therefore, understanding the addiction definition increases awareness about this mental disease.
The Addiction Definition
Experts define addiction as a chronic brain disease affecting memory, motivation, and reward functions. People with the condition pursue the relief or reward a behavior or substance produces. The traits of addiction include using despite outstanding circumstances, cravings, impaired control, and failure to stop consuming substances. Overall, addiction is a compulsion that harms the participant and those around them.
Furthermore, experts list seven criteria for addiction and people only need to meet three of these. For example, these include tolerance, withdrawal, limited control, and negative outcomes. Spending too much time focusing on the substance or behavior is another addiction indicator. Additionally, neglecting obligations and being unable to quit may be signs that drug rehab is necessary as well.
Even if the definition of addiction varies slightly, a few aspects stay the same. Often, the problem involves loss of control over the compulsion to use.
The Difference Between Abuse and Addiction
Many people confuse abuse and addiction. However, these are two very different conditions.
Abuse occurs when people can’t function well at home, school, or work because of addictive behavior. Despite the risks, an individual repeatedly uses. Eventually, they may develop personal and legal problems.
This substance abuse definition sounds very similar to addiction. However, the key difference is that people still have control over their actions while abusing substances. On the other hand, addiction doesn’t suddenly occur. Instead, it develops after prolonged abuse and leads to an inability to control use.
Types of Addiction
There are several types of addiction. Substance use disorder may involve cannabis, cocaine, heroin, meth, prescriptions, and other drugs. Often, when people think of addiction, these substances come to mind.
However, behavioral addictions don’t involve substances. For example, cutting, excessive eating, shopping, spiritual obsession, and watching porn are all behavioral addictions. Additionally, people can develop addictions while playing video games, having sex, and using the internet. Believe it or not, they can even have an addiction to exercise or pain.
In addition, addiction experts identify specific behaviors that fall under impulse control disorders. Those they recognize include compulsive gambling, setting fires, stealing, and committing physically aggressive acts.
Quality Addiction Treatment Is Always Available
Are you 25 or younger or have a child who is? Addiction help is available at Zelus Recovery in Meridian, Idaho. Our addiction treatment center for teens and young adults aims to help prevent them from causing damage to themselves and others. We offer addiction programs for all ages, including:
- Early intervention for middle schoolers
- Outpatient addiction drug rehab
- Intensive outpatient program
- Dual diagnosis treatment
- Family therapy program
Don’t wait any longer to get help for your child’s addiction. Fight back with help from a quality rehab facility. Call us now at 208.518.0797 to learn more about how we can help renew your life.
