Addiction
Addiction happens when someone feels a strong, often uncontrollable need to keep using a substance or doing something even when it’s causing harm. It’s not just about making bad choices or developing bad habits. Addiction rewires the brain, especially the parts that control reward, pleasure, and self-control.
While genes and life experiences both play a role, addiction is now widely recognized as a brain disorder.
People used to think addiction only meant drug or alcohol abuse. Now, we know it can also include behaviors like gambling, gaming, shopping, or even exercise — anything that hijacks the brain’s reward system.
With the right support and treatment, people can overcome addiction and build happy, healthy lives.
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Is addiction a disease?
Many health organizations classify addiction as a chronic medical condition affecting brain circuits for reward, motivation, and self-control. It can be managed with the right treatment and support.
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What causes addiction?
It usually stems from a mix of genetics, environment and stress, early exposure, and how specific substances or behaviors interact with brain chemistry.
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How can you break an addiction?
Evidence-based approaches include counseling (e.g., CBT), medication-assisted treatment when appropriate, peer support, lifestyle changes, and relapse-prevention planning.
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Is addiction genetic?
Genetics plays a big role in addiction; about 50% of a person’s risk comes from their DNA. But it’s not just about what you’re born with. Your environment, biology, and even your diet can interact with your genes and shape that risk. Take alcoholism, for example. It often runs in families. If you have close relatives who struggle with alcohol, your chances of developing the same problem are higher. That doesn’t mean it’s guaranteed, but it does mean you might need to be more aware. Genes influence vulnerability, while environment and experiences determine whether that risk develops into addiction.
