The Definition Of Addiction

The definition of addiction which can also apply to the definition of drug addiction according to Wikipedia is:

Addiction has been defined as physical and psychological dependence on psychoactive substances (for example alcohol, tobacco, heroin and other drugs) which cross the blood-brain barrier once ingested, temporarily altering the chemical milieu of the brain.

Addiction can also be viewed as a continued involvement with a substance or activity despite the negative consequences associated with it. Pleasure and enjoyment would have originally been sought; however, over a period of time involvement with the substance or activity is needed to feel normal.

In other words, the definition of addiction is simply defined as the compulsive need of an individual to engage in a certain activity such as compulsive overeating, workaholism, and compulsive over exercise or use of a substance such as alcohol, drugs, nicotine, coffee or sugar.

But today the term addiction relates to many activities according to psychological professionals and laymen. It now includes abnormal psychological dependency on such things as:

• gambling,
• food,
• sex,
• pornography,
• computers,
• internet,
• work,
• exercise,
• idolizing,
• relationships,
• watching TV or certain types of non-pornographic videos,
• spiritual obsession,
• self-injury and
• shopping

The American Society of Addiction Medicine defines Addiction as a primary, chronic disease in the areas of:

• brain reward,
• motivation,
• memory and related circuitry.

Dysfunction in these areas leads to characteristic biological, psychological, social and spiritual manifestations. This is reflected in how the individual pursues rewards and/or relief by substance use and other behaviors.

Any addict who has an addiction will create problems in:

• behavioral control,
• craving,
• inability to consistently abstain, and
• he or she cannot perceive significant problems with his/her behaviors and interpersonal relationships.

For the addict, it's all about running away from problems and seeking pleasure in any activity that he or she is drawn towards.

Like any other chronic disease, addiction can involve cycles of relapse and remission.

NOTE: Sad but true fact, is that without treatment or engagement in recovery activities, such as a drug addiction rehab center, addiction is progressive and can result in disability or even premature death.

More Information at:

• alcohol abuse effects
• causes of drug addiction
• teen alcohol abuse

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