Addiction

Addiction has the dubious honor of being a term that cannot have an agreed definition. It is described by some as a chronic disorder brought about by a combination of genetic, biological or pharmacological and social factors. While the medical profession still states it only occurs along with physical dependence where the body depends on a substance for normal functioning. If sudden removal of the drug or substance on which someone is dependent, it will usually cause a characteristic set of signs and symptoms called withdrawal. This can be linked to and is generally associated with increased drug tolerance and usage to achieve the desired results.

Some types of Addiction are not necessarily associated with substance abuse as they can result from using medications prescribed by doctors. Psychological dependence is often characterized by a compulsive need for a drug for psychological reasons, while physical dependence is characterized by the need for a drug because of a tolerance build up and a wanting to prevent withdrawal symptoms if you discontinuing using the drug. Physical dependence however, commonly occurs with both Addiction and therapeutic use of drugs.

This means the term can refer to a wide variety of behaviors that are not generally put into this category by the medical community. Some of these are compulsive overeating as well as substance abuse problems.

A lot of compulsions are not substance-related, like the problem gambling or computer addictions. It seems the term should cover anything where someone has a recurring compulsion to engage in some specific activity, despite harmful consequences, to their individual health, mental state or social life.

 To me it seems an Addiction is the compulsion to repeat behaviour regardless of its consequences. Any person displaying this compulsive behaviour could be considered addicted and should be considered an addict.

Some of the things people can normally get addicted to are alcohol, drugs (both illicit and prescription), sex and food. While others may say these are only substance abusers we have all heard of the drug addicts, alcoholics and someone suffering from prescription drug abuse. What we hear a lot less of is the co dependencies such as gambling, internet, pornography, food and alike. These are all very real addictions to anyone caught up in them.

All I can say is if you or anyone you know is displaying sign of compulsion or co dependence then you should seek help as you may have an Addiction.