DRUG ADDICTION
Drug addiction is a condition where a person becomes dependent on a substance and feels unable to stop using it, even when it causes harm. Over time, the body and mind start craving the drug, making the person lose control over how much or how often they use it. It affects thinking, behavior, health, and daily life. Drug addiction does not happen overnight — it develops gradually and becomes difficult to manage without proper support and treatment.
Is drug addiction a disease?
Yes, addiction is a disease – it’s a chronic condition. The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) defines any addiction as a chronic brain disorder. Addiction doesn’t happen because of a lack of willpower or bad decisions. Your brain chemistry changes with addiction.
Substance addiction is a chronic (lifelong) condition that involves compulsively seeking and taking a substance or performing an activity despite negative or harmful consequences.
Drug addiction can significantly impact your health, relationships, and overall quality of life. It is important to seek help as soon as symptoms of addiction appear.
Drugs
Drug addiction is most common among young people. However, symptoms of drug addiction are also being seen in older people.
Some substances are drugs that have addictive potential. They can be prescription drugs or non-prescription drugs:
- Marijuana
- Opium
- Sedatives
- Hallucinogens (LSD, PCP etc)
- Heroin
- Cocaine
- Inhalants
- Tobacco products