The SoberRecovery Glossary of Recovery Terms

Addiction

Addiction is the compulsive need for habit-forming substances like tobacco, drugs or alcohol. Addiction is both physical (physiological) and mental (psychological). An individual suffering from an addiction, also known as an addict, is driven by both physical and mental needs to continue using the addictive substance, regardless of the consequences.

It’s impossible to tell in advance if someone will become addicted to a particular substance or not. While statistics show that, for example, children of alcoholics are more like to become addicted to alcohol, not all of them end up with a drinking problem. Some drugs, however, are apparently more immediately addictive than others. Crack addicts often say they became addicted after the first or second use. Given these uncertainties, the only way one can be sure they won’t become addicted is to never even try the substance.

The only solution for the addict is to quit using the substance entirely. This is most often successfully accomplished through some sort of treatment program. Treatment programs range from self-help groups like Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, Cocaine Anonymous, and other 12 Step Groups, through formal programs using medical detox and requiring a stay in a treatment center. Most treatment centers draw on the 12 Steps as part of their treatment. The result of successful treatment is the ability to totally abstain from the drug(s) of choice and live a comfortable, productive life.

The addict who continues to use often ends up locked up in either prison or mental hospitals, or dead. Addiction is considered a terminal disease unless the addiction is interrupted through successful abstaining from the drug(s) of choice.

Related links: Alcoholism and Addiction