What is addiction
Addiction is a chronic (lifelong) condition that involves compulsive seeking and taking of a substance or performing of an activity despite harmful consequences.
Types of addiction
Substance addictions
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Alcohol.
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Caffeine.
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Cannabis (marijuana).
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Hallucinogens, such as PCP and LSD.
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Hypnotics, sedatives and anxiolytics (anti-anxiety drugs), such as sleeping pills, benzodiazepines and barbiturates.
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Inhalants, such as paint thinners, aerosol sprays, gases and nitrites (poppers).
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Prescription and non-prescription opioids, such as codeine, oxycodone and heroin.
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Prescription and non-prescription stimulants, such as Adderall®, cocaine and methamphetamine.
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Tobacco/nicotine, such as smoking cigarettes and electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes or vaping).
Non-substance addictions
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Gambling.
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Eating.
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Exercising or dieting.
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Shopping.
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Shoplifting or other risky behaviors.
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Having sex.
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Viewing pornography.
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Video gaming (internet gaming disorder).
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Using the internet (such as on your phone or a computer).
Signs of addiction
Inability to stop: People may use a substance or engage in harmful addictive behavior even if they want to stop. They may have tried multiple times to reduce the substance use or behavior but can’t. They may also lie to their loved ones about it or try to hide it.
Lack of control: They may feel like they’ve lost complete control over their substance use or activity and often feel helpless. They may often feel guilty, depressed and/or overwhelmed by their addiction and how much it’s impacted their lives.
Increased tolerance: Over time, they may need more of the substance or activity to feel the same euphoric effects as they did before.
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Personal problems and health issues: Addiction impacts all aspects of their lives, including their physical health, mental health, personal relationships and career. They may have issues fulfilling responsibilities at work, school or home due to substance use or the activity. Again, despite knowing the detrimental effects their addictions are having on them, they can’t stop.
Intense focus on the substance or activity: People with addictions become pathologically preoccupied with the substance or activity. They may feel that the addiction has taken over their lives, as they spend more and more time craving, obtaining and thinking of the subject of the addiction.
Withdrawal: People with addiction may experience emotional and physical withdrawal symptoms when they stop using. Physical symptoms include shaking, sweating or vomiting. They may also become anxious or irritable.
Management and Treatment of addictions
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Hospital management: Certain substances can create withdrawal that can be dangerous. Special hospital units practice monitoring and therapy to care for you while you go through substance withdrawal.
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Medications: Certain medications can reduce urges, cravings and ongoing withdrawal symptoms. If you have another mental health condition, such as bipolar disorder or depression, your provider may treat those with medications as well.
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Rehabilitation (rehab): This is also called “sober living” or “residential treatment.” Providers offer structured counseling, education, support and encouragement during rehab. You may live at a rehab facility (inpatient rehab) or visit one for scheduled sessions (outpatient rehab). Rehab services focus on helping you manage addiction long-term and live a healthier life.
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Therapy: Several types of therapy help people with addiction gain new perspectives and change their behavior. Your provider may recommend types of psychotherapy (talk therapy), like cognitive behavioral therapy or group therapy.
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Support groups: Many people manage addiction with the help of a support group, such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous. Groups like Al-Anon support family
