Addiction: Definition, Types, Causes, Effects, and Treatment

Addiction is a chronic condition characterized by compulsive substance seeking and use or engagement in rewarding behaviors, despite harmful consequences. The review “What Is The Definition Of Addiction”, from the American Society of Addiction Medicine,  defines addiction as a treatable medical condition involving alterations of brain circuits. Globally, it affects millions, causing significant health, social, and economic burdens. According to the factsheet “Substance Abuse” from the World Health Organization, in 2008, 5.7%, or 250 million people of the world’s population, aged 15-64 years, used drugs. 

There are two main types of addiction: substance addictions and behavioral addictions. In the 2012 study by Alavi, S. S., et al, “ Behavioral Addiction versus Substance Addiction: Correspondence of Psychiatric and Psychological Views “, International Journal of Preventive Medicine,  behavioral addiction occurs when a habit changes into compulsive behavior or an obligation such as gambling, unlike substance addictions which involve substances including alcohol or cocaine.

Causes of addiction are genetic predispositions, environmental influences like peer pressure or trauma, and brain chemistry alterations. The review “Substance Use Disorder” from Johns Hopkins Medicine states that genetic vulnerability, social norms, psychiatric problems, and environmental factors contribute to causing addiction.

Notable effects of addiction include organ damage, weakened immune systems, and increased risk of diseases. According to the review “ Health and Behavioral Risks of Alcohol and Drug Use” from Washington and Lee University, addiction causes problems such as anxiety, depression, cognitive decline, academic challenges, disrupted relationships, and financial problems.

Treatment options include detoxification, behavioral therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy, and medication-assisted treatment such as methadone. According to the 2024 review “ Treatment of Substance Use Disorders” from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, treating addiction involves medications and psychotherapy. Additionally, inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation programs offer structured support, while support groups provide peer connection.

What is Addiction?

Addiction is a neuropsychological disorder defined by an uncontrollable urge to use substances or engage in behaviors that produce pleasurable effects despite significant negative consequences. According to the 2019 review “Definition of Addiction” from the American Society of Addiction Medicine, addiction involves the compulsive need to use drugs or do something that affects the functioning of your life. This condition alters brain function, particularly in areas related to reward, motivation, and self-control, leading to compulsive behavior and a diminished ability to resist cravings. Addiction manifests in two primary forms: substance addiction and behavioral addiction.

Substance addiction refers to the dependency on drugs or alcohol, where individuals continue usage despite the harmful effects on their health and social life. Common examples include alcoholism, opioid addiction, and nicotine dependence. According to the 2020 review “Drugs, Brains, and Behavior: The Science of Addiction” from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), drug addiction is a chronic disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, leading to long-lasting changes in brain circuits involved in stress and self-control. According to the 2014 fact sheet “NIDA IC Fact Sheet 2024” from the National Institute on Drugs and Addiction (NIDA), 40.3 million people in the US had substance abuse disorder in 2020, however, only 6.5% received treatment for the condition.

On the other hand, behavioral addictions involve compulsive engagement in non-substance-related activities that also lead to adverse outcomes. Examples include gambling addiction, internet addiction, and shopping addiction. The 2022 review by  Alimoradi Z. et al.,“ Estimation of Behavioral Addiction Prevalence During COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis”, published in the Current Addiction Reports, indicates that behavioral addiction affected 14% of people globally.

How Does Addiction Develop?

Addiction develops as a gradual process characterized by changes in brain chemistry and behavior. According to the 2022 review “ How an Addicted Brain Works” from Yale Medicine, addiction develops when the brain’s reward system changes. Initially, when an individual engages with a substance, the brain’s reward system is activated, leading to the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reinforcement. 

This response encourages repeated use as the brain learns to associate the substance with positive feelings. However, as substance use continues, the brain undergoes adaptations; it becomes less sensitive to dopamine due to the overstimulation from drugs, which release levels of dopamine far exceeding natural rewards.

Over time, this altered brain chemistry increases tolerance, meaning that higher doses of the substance are needed to achieve the same pleasurable effects. Consequently, individuals find themselves compelled to seek out the substance not just for pleasure but to avoid withdrawal symptoms and restore a sense of normalcy. 

What Are the 4 Stages Of Addiction?

The 4 stages of drug addiction are experimentation, regular use, risky use/abuse, and, finally, drug addiction and dependency. According to the 2024 study by Fluyau D. et al., “Drug Addiction”, published in StatPearls, during the initial use of substances, users are naive, curious, and eager to experiment. It is important to note that not everyone who experiments with drugs or uses them regularly will become addicted; however, the risk of addiction increases as a person moves through these stages. 

The four stages of addiction include:

• Experimentation: This initial stage involves voluntary drug use, often driven by curiosity or social influence, without significant negative consequences. The 2010 Study By Lopez-Quintero, C., “Probability And Predictors Of Transition From First Use To Dependence On Nicotine, Alcohol, Cannabis, And Cocaine: Results Of The National Epidemiologic Survey On Alcohol And Related Conditions”, published in the Drug and Alcohol Dependence Journal, indicates that 22.7% of first-time users of alcohol transition to dependence.
• Regular Use: In this stage, substance use becomes more routine, increasing the risk of dependence and high-risk behaviors such as driving under the influence. Although the person is still able to stop on their own, the potential for abuse is growing.
• Risky Use/Abuse This stage is characterized by continued drug use despite experiencing negative consequences, such as legal or social issues. Warning signs like cravings, preoccupation with the substance, and withdrawal symptoms when not using begin to appear.
• Drug Addiction and Dependency The final stage involves compulsive drug-seeking and use despite severe negative consequences to one’s health, relationships, and overall well-being. Physical dependence, marked by withdrawal symptoms, is often present.

How Does Addiction Differ from a Habit or Dependence?

Addiction differs from a habit or dependence due to the different levels of behavioral engagement and control. According to the 2024 review “Difference Between Habit And Addiction”, from Mahindra University, addiction involves a change in brain functioning, while a habit involves repetitive behaviors. Addiction is characterized by compulsive behavior and a profound loss of control, where individuals continue engaging in harmful activities despite negative consequences. This often leads to both psychological and physical dependence, meaning that the body requires the substance or behavior to function normally, and withdrawal symptoms occur when it is absent.

In contrast, a habit involves routine behaviors performed with relative ease and control, typically without intense cravings or significant consequences. While habits are challenging to break, they do not usually lead to the same level of impairment as addictions. Dependence, on the other hand, refers specifically to the physical reliance on a substance, which exists without the compulsive behaviors associated with addiction.

What Are the Types of Addiction?

There are two types of addiction: substance addiction and behavioral addiction. According to the 2016 study by Grant, J. E., “Expanding the Definition of Addiction: DSM-5 vs. ICD-11”, published in CNS Spectrums Journal, substance addiction involves the use of psychoactive drugs, while behavioral addiction is engagement in activities such as gambling and uncontrollable sexual behavior.

Substance addiction involves a physical dependence on drugs or alcohol, where the body adapts to the presence of a substance, leading to intense cravings and withdrawal symptoms when not using it. Common examples include alcohol, opioids, cocaine, and nicotine. On the other hand, behavioral addiction refers to compulsive engagement in activities that provide a sense of reward or pleasure despite negative consequences. This includes gambling, shopping, internet use, and sex addiction. 

List definition

Substance/Drug Addiction

Substance addiction, medically known as substance use disorder (SUD), is a chronic condition characterized by the inability to control the use of substances despite harmful consequences. The 2022 study by Alinsky, R. H., et al., “Recommended Terminology for Substance Use Disorders in the Care of Children, Adolescents, Young Adults, and Families”, published in the American Academy of Pediatrics journal, indicates that DSM-V refers to drug addiction as substance use disorder. Common substances associated with addiction include alcohol, opioids (such as heroin or prescription painkillers), nicotine, and marijuana. These substances lead to significant health issues and social problems when misused.

Opioids have been a major public health concern. According to the review “Understanding the Opioid Overdose Epidemic” from Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, out of 108,000 deaths in 2022 due to overdose, 82,000 or 76% were due to opioid overdose. The opioid epidemic in the U.S., particularly in states like New Jersey, has highlighted severe consequences: thousands have died from opioid overdoses annually. The 2021 study by Crystal, S., et al, “Medically Treated Opioid Overdoses Among New Jersey Medicaid Beneficiaries: Rapid Growth And Complex Comorbidity Amid Growing Fentanyl Penetration”, published in the Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, indicates that opioid-related deaths have become a major concern over recent years due to fentanyl’s increasing presence in illicit drugs.

Dependence on substances often leads to withdrawal symptoms when attempting to stop use. This includes physical discomforts like nausea or tremors and psychological distress such as anxiety or cravings. 

Behavioral Addiction 

Behavioral addiction, or process addiction, is compulsive engagement in non-substance-related activities that activate the brain’s reward system, similar to substance use disorders. The 2020 review “Behavioral Addiction”, from Fighting the Opioid Epidemic Journal, defines behavioral addiction as an extreme desire to engage in compulsive behaviors for pleasure or to manage personal distress.

Common examples of behavioral addictions include gambling, which leads to severe financial and emotional distress; internet gaming disorder, where excessive video game use disrupts personal relationships and work; and shopping addiction, known as compulsive buying disorder, resulting in financial strain. Other notable examples are food addiction (compulsive overeating), sex addiction (excessive sexual behavior), exercise addiction (excessive physical activity), and internet addiction (excessive online activities).

The prevalence of behavioral addictions is growing. The 2022 study by Quigley, L.,” Gambling Disorder and Stigma: Opportunities for Treatment and Prevention”, published in the Current Addiction Reports Journal, indicates that approximately 1% of American adults suffer from severe gambling problems. Additionally, the 2013 study by Wong, G., “ Examining Gender Differences for Gambling Engagement and Gambling Problems Among Emerging Adults”, published in the Journal of Gambling Studies, shows that problem gambling rates have nearly doubled among emerging adults in the U.S., affecting about 7-11% of this population.

What Are the Causes of Addiction?

The causes of addiction include genetic predispositions, environmental influences such as peer pressure and family dynamics, and psychological factors like trauma and mental health disorders. According to the 2018 review “ Understanding Drug Use and Addiction” from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, biological, environmental, and developmental factors contribute to causing addiction.

The causes of addiction are outlined below:

• Genetics: Genetic makeup increases vulnerability to addiction. According to the review “Genes and Addiction” from the Genetic Science Learning Center, genes account for 40 to 60% of the risk.
• Trauma: Early childhood trauma or abuse significantly increases the likelihood of developing an addiction later in life.
• Peer Pressure: Social influences from peers encourage drug use and contribute to addiction development.
• Mental Health Disorders: Conditions like depression or anxiety often lead individuals to self-medicate with substances, potentially resulting in addiction.
• Environmental Factors: Family dynamics, socioeconomic status, and exposure to drugs at an early age play significant roles in shaping behaviors related to substance use.

Who Are the Most at Risk of Addiction?

The most at risk of addiction include teens and young adults, particularly those aged 15 to 24 years, as they are more likely to experience mental illness and substance use disorders. The 2020 review “Drugs, Brains, and Behavior: The Science of Addiction”, from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, shows that teens and people with mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder, are also at higher risk of addiction due to their vulnerability in seeking relief through substances. Additionally, those with a family history of addiction face increased risks; children of alcoholics or drug addicts are significantly more likely to develop substance use disorders themselves.

Demographically, young males tend to have higher rates of substance abuse compared to females. The 2021 study by Fonseca, F., “A Gender Perspective of Addictive Disorders”, published in the Current Addiction Reports Journal, indicates that men are at a higher risk of substance abuse and dependency compared to women. Caucasians have been reported to have higher drug abuse rates than other ethnic groups.

What Are the Effects of Addiction?

The effects of addiction are a decline in physical health, mental health problems, strained or broken relationships, financial issues, and cognitive impairment. According to the 2020 review “ Addiction and Health” from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, people who are addicted to psychoactive substances usually experience health problems such as cancer, cardiovascular or respiratory conditions, and mental issues. 

The effects of addiction are outlined below:

• Physical Health Decline: Short-term effects of substance disorders include an increased risk of infectious diseases like HIV from shared needles. According to the 1998 review “Consequences Of Youth Substance Abuse”, from the Drug Identification and Testing in the Juvenile Justice System, long-term health issues associated with addiction are cardiovascular problems, cancer, organ damage, and increased risk of overdose.
• Mental Health Issues: Short-term mental effects include euphoria followed by irritability upon withdrawal from substances like alcohol and cannabis. In the 2004 report “ Drug Abuse and Mental Illness Fast Facts” from the National Drug Intelligence Center, long-term issues associated with addiction are depression, anxiety, learning difficulties with alcohol use, paranoia with methamphetamine use, and mood problems.
• Relationship Strains: Addiction often leads to damaged relationships due to neglect or erratic behavior. According to the 2013 study by Lander, L., et al., “The Impact of Substance Use Disorders on Families and Children: From Theory to Practice”, published in Social Work in Public Health Journal, substance abuse results in strained relationships and dysfunctional families.
• Financial Distress: Spending large sums on drugs leads to financial instability. The study by Jones-Sanpei H A, “Financial Capability in Addiction Research and Clinical Practice”, published in Substance Use & Misuse Journal, shows that by the time substance users seek treatment, many are facing legal problems due to committing crimes as a result of financial distress.
• Cognitive Impairment: Drugs affect judgment and decision-making abilities over time due to changes in brain chemistry. The 2018 study by Ramey, T., et al., “Cognitive Impairment in Substance Use Disorders”, published in the CNS Spectrums Journal, indicates that addiction changes cognitive function.

How Is Addiction Diagnosed?

Diagnosing addiction involves physical examinations, taking medical histories, and performing toxicology screenings to identify substance use disorders. According to the 2024 review “ What Is a Substance Use Disorder” from the American Psychiatric Association, addiction is diagnosed by conducting a symptoms assessment. Structured interviews based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) are crucial for formal diagnoses. The DSM-5 outlines specific criteria for diagnosing substance use disorders on various substances like alcohol, opioids, and cannabis.

The DSM-5 criteria require a pattern of substance use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress within 12 months. To receive a diagnosis, an individual must meet at least two out of eleven criteria related to their substance use. These include tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control use, and significant time spent obtaining the substance. The severity of addiction is classified as mild (two to three criteria), moderate (four to five), or severe (six or more). Other assessment tools like the AUDIT alcohol screen are also used in conjunction with the DSM-5 criteria.

What Are the Best Treatment Options for Addiction?

The best treatment options for addiction are medical detoxification, inpatient or outpatient programs, psychotherapy, and medication-assisted treatment. According to the 2024 review “Treatment of Substance Use Disorders” from Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, medications and psychotherapy are used to encourage motivation and help manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns, while motivational enhancement therapy (MET) boosts internal motivation for change. Medications like naltrexone and acamprosate reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. 

The best treatment options for addiction are outlined below:

• Medical detoxification
• Inpatient or outpatient programs
• Psychotherapy
• Medication-assisted treatment

1. Medical Detoxification

Medical detoxification is a medically supervised detox to manage withdrawal symptoms, safely clearing drugs/alcohol from the body to prepare for further addiction treatment. According to the 2014 study by Diaper, A. M., et al.., “ Pharmacological Strategies For Detoxification” from the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, medical detox helps the user to safely discontinue substance use and takes about a month. Medical detoxification is crucial in addiction treatment as it provides a safe environment for individuals to overcome physical dependence on substances like drugs or alcohol. Under medical supervision, medical detox helps manage withdrawal symptoms and ensures physical stabilization during the process of eliminating toxic substances from the body. 

Here are some key aspects of medical detox:

• Medications Used: Common medications include benzodiazepines (for alcohol and benzodiazepine withdrawal), methadone or buprenorphine (for opioid withdrawal), and naltrexone (to reduce cravings).
• Medical detox involves careful monitoring and management by healthcare professionals to ensure safety.
• It focuses on withdrawal management, helping patients navigate potentially dangerous symptoms.
• The goal is to achieve stable health before transitioning into further therapy or rehabilitation programs.
• Medical detox provides a foundation for long-term recovery by addressing immediate physical needs under professional care.

2. Inpatient vs. Outpatient Programs

Inpatient programs involve treatment while residing at the facility, unlike outpatient programs, which involve patients coming in for treatment at scheduled times while staying at home. According to the 2014 study by McCarty, D., et al., “Substance Abuse Intensive Outpatient Programs: Assessing the Evidence”, published in the Psychiatric Services Journal, outpatient programs for substance abusers are aimed at people who do not require medical detox or 24-hour supervision.

Below is a list explaining inpatient and outpatient programs in addiction treatment:

• Inpatient Programs
• Definition: Residential treatment is where patients live at the facility for the duration of their treatment, providing a structured environment.
• Benefits: Offers intensive care, 24/7 support, and individualized care plans. It is ideal for severe addiction cases or those requiring constant supervision.
• Intensity and Duration: Usually more intensive with a fixed duration, often ranging from a few weeks to several months.

• Outpatient Programs
• Definition: Non-residential treatment where patients attend therapy sessions during the day and return home at night, offering flexibility.
• Benefits: Provides flexibility for those with work or family commitments. It is often less expensive and suitable for mild to moderate addiction cases.
• Intensity and Duration: Less intensive than inpatient programs but longer in duration, depending on individual needs.
• Differences and Appropriateness: Inpatient is more appropriate for severe cases or those needing intensive care, while outpatient is better for those who require flexibility and have a stable home environment. The choice between inpatient vs. outpatient programs depends on the severity of addiction, personal circumstances, and the level of support needed. Inpatient programs are generally recommended for those who require a highly structured environment and intensive care, while outpatient programs are suitable for those who need ongoing support with more flexibility.

3. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based approach that combines FDA-approved medications, such as methadone, with psychotherapies to treat substance use disorders, including opioid use disorder and alcohol use disorder. According to the 2020 study by Deyo-Svendsen, M., et al “Medication-Assisted Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder in a Rural Family Medicine Practice”, published in the Journal of Primary Care & Community Health, MAT pairs psychosocial interventions with medications to treat substance abuse disorder. MAT helps in treating addiction by reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms, thereby facilitating recovery. 

Common Medications used in MAT are:

• Methadone: A long-acting opioid agonist that reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings. The 2018 report “Medications to Treat Opioid Use Disorder Research Report: How Effective Are Medications To Treat Opioid Use Disorder”, from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, indicates that patients on methadone had 33% fewer positive opioid drug tests, and 4% more likely to remain in treatment compared to the control group.
• Buprenorphine: A partial opioid agonist that decreases physical dependency on opioids. According to the 2012 study by Ling, W., et al., “Buprenorphine For Opioid Addiction”, from the Pain Management Journal, about 50% of patients had successful outcomes during a 12 week treatment program with buprenorphine.
• Naltrexone: An opioid antagonist that blocks euphoric effects, preventing relapse. According to the 2008 study by Anton, R. F., “Naltrexone for the Management of Alcohol Dependence”, from The New England Journal of Medicine, patients who received naltrexone treatment had an 80.6% success rate compared to placebo.

MAT has shown significant success in treating substance abuse disorders, improving treatment retention rates, reducing criminal activity, and increasing patient survival rates. The 2018 study by Cristen B., et al., “Medication-Assisted Treatment Expansion in Colorado” from the Colorado Department of Human Services, suggests that MAT has a success rate of 60%, especially in treating opioid addiction. The review also demonstrated that MAT enabled better retention rates and reduced the risk of overdose.

4. Psychotherapies

Psychotherapies in addiction treatment use psychosocial interventions such as cognitive behavior therapy to address the psychological roots of addiction, enhance motivation for change, and provide emotional support. According to the 2022 study by Feingold, D., et al., “Addiction Psychotherapy: Going Beyond Self-Medication”, published in Frontiers in Psychiatry Journal, psychotherapy addresses the underlying causes of addiction, promotes alternative coping behaviors, and builds resilience against relapse. Key psychotherapies in addiction treatment include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Focuses on cognitive restructuring to change maladaptive thought patterns and behaviors. According to the 2022 study by Irani, R. D., et al., “Comparing the Effectiveness of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Brief Intervention on Relapse Prevention among Drug Users”, published in Addiction & Health Journal, CBT is effective in relapse prevention by developing alternative coping skills.
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Emphasizes emotional regulation and acceptance to manage substance use. The 2016 study by Eva F., et al., “Emotion Regulation in Schema Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy”, published in the Frontiers in Psychology Journal, DBT helps individuals learn from relapse incidents and strive for quick recovery.
• Motivational Interviewing (MI): Enhances motivation for change through conversational techniques, creating awareness of discrepancies between goals and current behaviors.
• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): This is a trauma-focused therapy that helps process traumatic experiences, reduces emotional impact, and helps recovery from addiction stemming from trauma. According to the 2017 review “Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy” from the American Psychological Association, EMDR therapy was originally developed to treat posttraumatic stress disorder.

5. Dual Diagnosis Treatment

Dual diagnosis is the co-occurrence of a mental health disorder, such as bipolar or depression, and a substance use disorder. According to the review “Dual Diagnosis”, from MedlinePlus,  refers to a condition where a person is diagnosed with two co-occurring disorders: substance use disorder (SUD), and mental disorder individuals with these co-occurring disorders must receive comprehensive care, as treating one condition without addressing the other lead to ineffective recovery and increased risk of relapse. Dual diagnosis treatment emphasizes the interconnected nature of these conditions, requiring a holistic approach that addresses both simultaneously.

Dual diagnosis is a common occurrence in addiction treatment. A 2007 study by Flynn, P. M., et al.., “ Co-Occurring Disorders in Substance Abuse Treatment: Issues and Prospects”, indicated that more than 50% of patients diagnosed with SUD had one or more mental disorders including antisocial personality disorders and anxiety disorders.

Examples of dual diagnosis include addiction combined with depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or anxiety disorders. For instance, someone struggling with opioid addiction and depression requires treatment that addresses both conditions to ensure effective recovery. Similarly, a person with PTSD and alcohol use disorder needs a treatment plan that considers the interplay between their mental health and substance use issues.

Integrated care is essential for dual diagnosis treatment, involving a combination of therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and medication management. This holistic approach significantly improves outcomes by reducing relapse rates and enhancing overall well-being. The 2013 study by Kelly, T. M., et al.., “ Integrated Treatment of Substance Use and Psychiatric Disorders,” published in Social Work in Public Health Journal, indicates that treating co-occurring disorders simultaneously leads to better long-term recovery rates compared to sequential treatment of each condition separately.

6. Experiential Therapies

Experiential therapies are a non-traditional approach to addiction treatment, diverging from conventional talk therapies by engaging patients in hands-on activities and real-world experiences. According to the 1989 study by Greenberg, L.S., “Experiential Therapy”, published in the Springer Journal, experiential therapies are alternative therapies such as art therapy, which uses creative expression to explore emotions; equine therapy, where interaction with horses fosters emotional growth; and adventure therapy, which utilizes outdoor activities like hiking to build resilience and teamwork.

By strengthening the mind-body connection, experiential therapies help individuals process emotions, develop coping strategies, and enhance self-esteem. They offer a unique pathway to address underlying emotional and psychological issues, promoting a more profound and lasting recovery by allowing individuals to express themselves authentically in a supportive environment.

Can Addiction Be Fully Cured?

No, addiction cannot be fully cured, but it is manageable. According to the 2020 review “Teens Ask: Is There a Cure for Addiction?” from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, there is no cure for addiction. Rather, addiction is considered a chronic condition, similar to diabetes or asthma, where treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing relapse rather than achieving a complete cure. Recovery from addiction is a long-term process that requires continuous effort to maintain sobriety and address underlying issues, allowing individuals to lead productive lives despite the ongoing presence of the disease.

Why Do Some People Relapse After Treatment?

Some people relapse after treatment due to stress, triggers, cravings, mental health issues, lack of support, and disrupting ongoing recovery. The 2023 study by Guenzel N., et al., “Addiction Relapse Prevention”, published in StatPearls, indicates that people recovering from addiction often experience relapses as part of the recovery process. 

Relapse is usually triggered by factors such as contact with substances, stress cues, certain people, places, and emotions associated with drug use. Lack of support is another significant factor, as having a strong network of family, friends, or professional help can significantly aid in maintaining sobriety. Stress is also a major contributor, as it can increase drug craving and lead to relapse. Additionally, internal factors like poor self-care and overconfidence in recovery can also play a role.

Relapse rates are high, with the 2020 review “Treatment and Recovery” from the National Institute on Drug Abuse indicating that approximately 40–60% of individuals relapse within three months after treatment. The 2020 review indicates that about half of the people with substance use disorders experience relapse at least once during recovery. 

How Can Relapse Be Prevented?

Relapse can be prevented using cognitive therapy, environmental changes, support systems, self-care, monitoring, and follow-up care. The 2023 study by Guenzel N., et al., “Addiction Relapse Prevention”, from StatPearls Journal, indicates that therapy, monitoring, and skill development are common relapse prevention strategies.

Relapse prevention strategies are outlined below:

• Cognitive Therapy and Mind-Body Relaxation: These techniques help develop healthy coping skills and manage stress.
• Environmental Changes: Avoid places and people associated with substance use, and remove drug paraphernalia from the home.
• Support System: Build a strong network of supportive people and consider mentorship.
• Self-Care: Practice regular exercise, healthy eating, and adequate sleep to reduce stress and improve well-being.
• Follow-Up Care: Regular therapy sessions, aftercare programs, and booster sessions can help maintain sobriety.
• Honesty and Help-Seeking: Encourage honesty about struggles and seeking help when needed.
• Stress Management: Use techniques like meditation and yoga to manage stress effectively.

What Should You Do If Your Loved Ones Get Addicted?

You should offer unwavering support, set healthy boundaries, encourage treatment and recovery, and prioritize their well-being, if your loved ones become addicted.

According to the 2023 review “ Intervention: Help A Loved One Overcome Addiction” from Mayo Clinic, you should listen to your loved one without being judgmental, work with an addiction professional, and provide support. 

Active listening is key to understanding their perspective and validating their emotions, fostering trust and open communication. Finding help is essential, and this starts with educating yourself about addiction and its treatment options. Consulting professionals, such as counselors or interventionists, guide you in staging an intervention if necessary. Support groups and community-based programs also provide valuable resources for recovery.

Supporting recovery involves setting healthy boundaries while offering emotional support. Encourage your loved one to seek professional treatment and address any co-occurring mental health issues. Helping them find new interests and coping strategies prevents relapse. Prioritize self-care to maintain your well-being during this challenging time.

What Is the Most Common Drug Addiction?

The most common drug addiction is alcohol. According to the 2023 survey “ Prevalence of Past-Year Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)” from the United States National Survey on Drug Use and Health, approximately 28.9 million Americans aged 12 and older battled an alcohol use disorder, accounting for about 10.2% of this population. This makes alcohol the most widely abused substance in the U.S., with significant impacts on health and society. Additionally, the 2023 survey indicates that 20% of American adults have an alcohol use disorder, but only a small fraction receive treatment.

What Is the Most Common Behavioral Addiction?

The most common behavioral addictions are internet addiction and shopping addiction. The 2024 review by Saya D., “Technology Addiction Statistics 2024”, from the Center for Internet& Technology Addiction states that 35% of the global population is addicted to the Internet. Internet addiction encompasses excessive use of the internet, including social media, gaming, and online shopping, which leads to significant social and psychological issues. Shopping addiction involves compulsive buying, often driven by emotional needs rather than financial necessity, leading to financial strain and personal distress. Both of these addictions are increasingly recognized due to their widespread impact on daily functioning and mental health.

How Common is Gambling Addiction?

Gambling addiction is a common problem both in the US and around the world. The review “FAQs: What is Problem Gambling” from the National Council on Problem Gambling shows that 1% of US adults have severe gambling addiction, while 3% have mild to moderate gambling problems. Additionally, the 2023 report “The Prevalence of Online and Land-Based Gambling in New Jersey” from the Rutgers Center for Gambling Studies indicates that about 61% of New Jersey residents reported gambling in the past year.