Understanding Addiction

Addiction is an extreme form of dependence on a certain substance or activity. Though most often associated with drugs, any activity or substance that you can become dependent upon can be an addiction. This includes activities such as shopping and gambling, as well as drugs and alcohol. While not everyone who indulges in these activities is dependent upon them, to be addicted to something means that you feel like you cannot stop on your own and you require outside help, often in the form of medication and psychotherapy, to successfully quit.

The Causes of Addiction

When it comes to understanding the causes of addiction, one of the most important factor is genetic vulnerability. There is some evidence that addiction is inherited, and that people with a family history of addiction may be at greater risk of developing addictions themselves. Other risk factors can include mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety, as well as traumatic events, excessive stress and limited access to social support networks. In this way, addiction can be thought of as an adaptive response to stressful life situations.

How to Treat Addictions

Sometimes, the only way to effectively manage addiction is to completely abstain from the addictive substance or activity. Abstinence is the most reliable way to manage an addiction, though this doesn’t necessarily mean that a person will never relapse. Other treatments such as medication, psychotherapy, and 12-step programs, can all be helpful in managing addiction and preventing relapse. However, the best approach is to combine several strategies and create an individualized plan that works for you.

No matter the cause or type of addiction, the most important thing to remember is that help is available. With the right combination of treatments, a person can successfully manage their addiction and live a happy, healthy life.