What is the definition of addiction?

What is the definition of addiction?

Addiction is a compulsion to use a substance or exhibit an activity regardless of negative or adverse consequences. Addiction is characterized by a psychological and/or physical dependence on the substance or behavior. The following traits define most addictive behavior…

Dependence: A recurrent or ongoing need/compulsion to use substances or exhibit behaviors. Psychological dependence is the need to use or behave in order to think, feel or function normally. Physical dependence exists when tissues of the body require the presence of alcohol or drugs in order to function normally. 

Inability to stop: Behavior is continued even in the face of obvious negative consequences.

Tolerance or Progressiveness: Requirement for increasing doses or increasingly risky behavior to achieve the same effect as was obtained by the original dose or behavior.

Withdrawal: Physical and/or psychological effects that occur when an addict attempts to stop their addictive behavior.

Unmanageability: Life literally becomes unmanageable or out of control as the addict grows in dependence on the substance or behaviors that characterize their addiction(s).

Co-morbidity: Most addicts exhibit more than one addiction or, upon stopping one addiction, jump to another addiction soon thereafter.

Double Life: Many addicts lead a secret or “double life” as they perform their addictive behaviors while appearing to function normally to the outside world.

Depression and/or Anxiety: Many addicts also show symptoms of depression and/or anxiety. In fact, most addicts will say that they act out in order to relieve depression or stress.

Life can become unmanageable or out of control due to any type of addition…whether it be alcohol, drugs, sex, smoking, relationships, money, TV, gambling, religion, food, work, exercise, or even surfing the internet.  And, this list is a work in progress. There is much to learn and comprehend. What would your definition of addiction look like?  You can find an addictions list at www.RecoverYES.com.