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addiction

addiction is a neuropsychological disorder that is driven by overwhelming urges to use a particular substance or engage in a particular behaviour. when a person engages in certain behaviours or ingests specific substances they are addicted to, it activates the reward center in the brain, leading to an increased need to feel that same feeling by using again.

it is different than recreational use of drugs or potentially harmful activities. it is only when the addiction negatively affects one’s life in various ways that it can be characterized as such. for example, a person who uses cannabis recreational would not be considered addicted to the substance unless their use harms a person’s ability to maintain relationships, jobs, and function typically in society.

there are two types of addiction: chemical and behavioural. chemical addiction is when substances are involved and behavioural is related to compulsive and intense urges to engage in a specific activity. some examples of chemical addition include illicit drugs, such as heroin, methamphetamines, or cocaine, alchool, opiods – prescription or otherwise, psychedelic drugs, tobacco and caffiene.

behavioural addictions differ, and some examples can include gambling, internet, exercise, video games, shopping, plastic surgery, food and compulsive stealing.

addictive behaviours and the development of addiction as a mental disorder can be attributed to various outside factors, including genetics, psychological state, and a person’s environment. risk factors that increase a person’s chance of developing addiction include:
• trauma or stress
• family history of addiction
• pre-existing mental health disorders
• early use of illicit substances
• socioeconomic status
• emotional or physical abuse

when people develop addiction and seek treatment, it takes a long time to overcome the disorder. people often go through periods of withdrawal, experiencing symptoms such as:
• sleeplessness
• irritability
• changing moods
• depression or anxiety
• aches and pains
• cravings
• tiredness
• hallucinations
• gastrointestinal upset, including nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• sweating
• shaking
• paranoia
• confusion
• tremors
• disorientation
• seizures

the more severe symptoms, such as paranoia, seizures, and tremors are more so associated with substance addiction as opposed to behavioural addiction. there are various therapy avenues people can take when trying to treat their addiction, including detoxification, medications, counselling, support groups and therapy for underlying issues that drive addiction.

in most cases, addiction can be prevented with early identification practices and education surrounding a person’s own risks with addiction as well as drug use as a whole. treatment of underlying mental disorders, such as depression or anxiety, can also help to prevent someone from seeking out illicit substances as a way to self-soothe. research continues to look for viable and effective prevention and treatment techniques surrounding addiction, since there is currently no cure.

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