Addiction

From Drug Rehab Wiki

Addiction is a chronic yet treatable disorder whereby an individual becomes abnormally dependent on something that is psychologically or physically dangerous and habit forming. Addiction causes a person to act compulsively and experience a lack of control, and the condition worsens over time. Addictions can range from drug addiction and alcoholism to compulsive gambling, overeating, sexual addiction, and Internet addiction.

Signs of an addiction include an individual’s inability to stop their actions despite negative consequences; developing a tolerance coupled with experiencing withdrawal symptoms; avoidance of social encounters or activities that were once enjoyable; and behavioral changes such as increased irritability or paranoia. Addiction can be treated through cognitive behavioral therapy, outpatient treatment centers, group therapy, drug rehab, one-on-one sessions, and medication when applicable.

Also see Disease Model of Addiction