To think of addiction as meaning only drugs and alcohol is a disservice, it is a broader subject than that alone.
In addition to substance use addictions such as alcoholism, prescription pill, and controlled substances, there are process addictions. Compulsive behaviors can be addictions also for example: disordered eating patterns, gambling, and shopping. Being active in addiction hurts not only yourself but everyone who comes in contact with you. Questions occur. What actually is addiction? When does it start and how? When does a pattern of behavior cross the line into addiction?
It is a mystery why some can use drugs or alcohol and not become addicted, while others cannot avoid it. Those who cannot stop and control their behaviors get addicted, and that is unfortunate. Addiction is possible for everyone despite ethnic, social or economic status.
There is not a standard addict profile. There is no universal type. Though addiction has been studied for years, few researchers can agree on causes or cures. A really difficult part of addiction to measure is the emotional impact. A lot of people believe they can gain relief from uncomfortable emotions by taking part in their addiction. It is a strange twist of fate that engaging in the behavior actually creates more negative emotions that require even more relief.
While addiction manifests itself in different people in different ways, here are the most common signs and symptoms of addiction:
Symptom 1 - Unable to meet responsibilities of relationships or at home, school or work.
Symptom 2 - Compulsive preoccupation, meaning one spends a great deal of time thinking about the substance or behavior
Symptom 3 - Has tried but failed to stop using the substance or end the behavior. Loss of control has set in.
Symptom 4 - Engages in the behavior or substance use knowing it is dangerous or in dangerous situations such as driving.
Symptom 5 - Because of the addiction, one stops activities or hobbies that were fun or enjoyable.
Symptom 6 - There is a need to increase the amount and frequency of the behavior or substance to achieve the desired felling or affect.
Symptom 7 - Ones life has become centered around the addiction, isolation from others occurs.
Talk to somebody if any of the above signs are occurring. Virtually all addiction professionals agree that there is a progressive element to addiction. If you eat addiction untreated, it will progress.
There is more information available here on addiction treatment.
