What is Addiction? | Symptoms, Causes and Types

What is an addiction?

Addiction is a chronic condition that occurs when a person develops a physical or psychological dependence on a substance or activity. It’s characterised by an inability to stop despite negative consequences affecting health, relationships or daily responsibilities. Addiction can involve substances like alcohol, drugs or nicotine, but it can also relate to behaviours such as gambling or gaming.

Over time, addiction rewires the brain’s reward system, making it difficult to control cravings and impulses. While often seen as a lack of willpower, addiction is more complex, involving biological, psychological and environmental factors. Recognising it as a condition rather than a choice is key to understanding how it impacts lives and why seeking help is crucial.

How can an addiction begin?

Addiction is a complex issue with no singular cause, and it can stem from a combination of factors. Whether it involves substances like drugs or alcohol or behaviours like gambling or gaming, the pathway to addiction often feels gradual and unintentional.

Here are five common ways an addiction can begin

Genetic predisposition

Some research suggests that addiction often runs in families, suggesting a genetic component, but while genetics alone don’t determine addiction, they can increase vulnerability when combined with environmental and emotional factors.

Environmental influences

The environment in which a person grows up or lives can significantly impact their susceptibility to addiction. Exposure to substance use, trauma or high-stress environments can normalise addictive behaviours.

For instance, someone raised in a household where alcohol or drugs are commonly used to cope with stress may see these behaviours as acceptable solutions.

Emotional factors

Addiction often begins as a way to cope with unresolved emotional struggles or mental health challenges. Anxiety, depression or trauma can push someone toward substances or behaviours that temporarily numb their pain.

For example, a person experiencing severe anxiety might be prescribed medication to help them relax. While the medication offers relief, they might begin using it more frequently to handle other stresses, eventually becoming dependent on it to feel functional.

Reward system dysregulation

The brain’s reward system plays a pivotal role in addiction. When engaging in a pleasurable activity or consuming a substance, the brain releases dopamine, creating feelings of pleasure or euphoria. Over time, repeated exposure can rewire the brain, making the individual seek the same “high” repeatedly.

Accidental or gradual exposure

Addictions often begin unintentionally, especially with substances prescribed for legitimate reasons. For example, someone recovering from surgery might be prescribed strong painkillers like opioids. At first, they take the medication as directed, but as their tolerance builds, they need higher doses for the same effect. Without realising it, they develop a dependency that becomes difficult to break.

Similarly, behavioural addictions can start innocently. Spending more time on social media to stay connected or playing games to unwind can spiral into compulsive behaviours when boundaries aren’t maintained. Over time, these habits can interfere with daily life, creating a dependency on the behaviour to feel normal.

How is an addiction treated?

Addiction treatment varies depending on the type and severity of the addiction, whether it’s substance or behavioural. Generally, treatment options include inpatient and outpatient programmes. For severe addictions, inpatient treatment is highly recommended as it provides a focused, supportive environment without distractions or triggers.

How substance addictions are treated in rehab centres

Substance addiction treatment focuses on helping individuals overcome physical and emotional challenges. Detox is often the first step in safely managing withdrawal symptoms with professional supervision. Therapy, such as one-to-one counselling and group sessions, addresses the root causes of addiction, while holistic approaches like mindfulness and yoga support emotional healing. Aftercare ensures ongoing support to maintain recovery.

How behavioural addictions are treated in rehab centres

Behavioural addiction treatment helps individuals understand and manage unhealthy behaviours. Therapy, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), identifies triggers and builds healthier responses. Group counselling creates connection, while holistic methods like mindfulness promote balance. Aftercare provides tools to sustain long-term progress.