Addiction is a chronic and often relapsing condition in which an individual is physically and/or psychologically dependent on a substance or behavior that is considered harmful to their overall health and well-being. Addiction is considered a brain disease, as it affects the brain’s reward center and can alter the brain’s chemistry and neural pathways.

Addiction can take many forms, including drug and alcohol addiction, gambling addiction, sex addiction, and food addiction, among others. Some common signs and symptoms of addiction include:

Compulsive use of the substance or behavior, despite negative consequences.

Tolerance, or the need for increasing amounts of the substance or behavior to achieve the desired effect.

Withdrawal symptoms, such as cravings, irritability, and anxiety, when the substance or behavior is stopped or reduced.

Continued use of the substance or behavior despite knowledge of the harm it causes to physical or mental health, relationships, or career.

Loss of control over the use of the substance or behavior, such as being unable to stop or cut back despite attempts to do so.

Addiction can have a significant impact on an individual’s life, relationships, and overall well-being. Effective treatment for addiction typically involves a combination of therapy, support groups, medication, and other resources to help individuals overcome their dependence and achieve long-term recovery.