ADDICTION
Addiction is characterized by compulsive use, loss of control over use, and continued use despite consequences.
Definition of Addiction:
Addiction is a brain disease – as real as the disease of cancer, diabetes or hypertension. Addiction is a progressive, fatal, incurable disease characterized by compulsive use, loss of control over use, and continued use despite negative consequences. The progression of the disease can be recognized by an increase in frequency, quantity and severity of consequences. People die from addiction in many ways - through overdose, motor vehicle accidents, and suicide. While it is incurable it may be brought into a state of remission through abstinence and a rigorous program of supported recovery.
Some addicts suffer from “process addictions”. These people are “getting high” from certain behaviors. Sex, binging and purging, restricting, gambling, spending – all of these behaviors can become addictions. Unlike cocaine or heroin the mind and mood altering chemicals are released in the addict’s own brain. The craving is real – the consequences are real and, as many family members know, the pain and shame are immense. Intervention is a viable solution in these cases.
