Addiction is very often misunderstood, but at its basic core, it IS a chronic brain disease that affects how people process reward, control impulses, & manage stress. It’s been considered this for decades, now. It’s not simply about making bad choices—it’s about the BRAIN becoming rewired to seek something, even when it causes harm. Simply put- It’s not the act of doing something, it’s the mental craving, the NEED/URGE to have whatever, whether it’s a substance, gambling, shopping, sex, etc. We truly can (& do) become addicted to ANYTHING, in all honestly. It’s not a moral failing, it doesn’t mean the person is weak, or a “degenerate.”
Addiction vs. Physical Dependence
It’s important to understand the difference between addiction & physical dependence, as they are two different things. Physical dependence occurs when the body adapts to a substance, leading to withdrawal symptoms if the substance is stopped. This can happen with many medications, including those taken as prescribed, like opioids, benzos, or antidepressants, to name a few examples. Addiction, on the other hand, is characterized by a psychological compulsion — a mental & emotional craving that drives someone to use a substance or engage in a behavior despite harmful consequences. While physical dependence is a natural response to prolonged substance use, addiction is a complex disease involving both the mind & the body.
Addiction vs. Simple Use
The key difference between using/doing something & being addicted to it lies in the mental & emotional need. Addiction isn’t about how much or how often you use—No, it’s about the inability to STOP despite negative consequences. It’s the mental compulsion to keep repeating a behavior, even when it causes harm to health, relationships, or life goals.
For example:
• Shopping: Most people shop to fulfill a need or for enjoyment. But when shopping becomes an addiction, it’s no longer about buying something practical or fun—it’s about the compulsion to shop as a way to cope with stress, anxiety, or emotions. Even if someone ends up in debt or with items they don’t need, the need to shop takes over.
• Sex: While a healthy sex life is natural, sex addiction involves a compulsive need for sexual activity, often used as a way to escape emotional pain or stress. It can lead to harmful consequences, like damaged relationships or risky behavior.
• Gambling: Gambling addiction goes beyond occasional betting. It’s a psychological compulsion to chase wins, even when it leads to financial ruin, broken relationships, or legal troubles.
• Social Media/Technology: The endless scrolling or constant need to check notifications can turn into an addiction, without even realizing it. The dopamine hit from likes, comments, or achievements in games can create a cycle of dependency that impacts mental health and productivity.
• Other Addictions: Addiction isn’t limited to substances like drugs or alcohol, which many people seem to forget. You can become addicted to nearly anything: food, p0rn, gaming, working, risk-taking, or even exercise. You truly can become addicted to ANYTHING. These behaviors activate the brain’s reward system, releasing dopamine (a feel-good chemical). Over time, the brain starts to crave that dopamine, making the behavior feel like a necessity rather than a choice.
So Why Is It a Disease?
Addiction changes the structure & function of the brain, especially in areas responsible for decision-making, impulse control, & judgment. These changes make it extremely difficult for someone to stop, even if they want to. THAT’S why addiction is classified as a disease— it’s not about willpower or morality, but about how the brain has adapted to prioritize the addictive substance or behavior above all else.
Let’s Break the Stigma So We Can Heal
Understanding addiction as a disease helps us move away from blame & judgment. It’s not about being weak or selfish; it’s about the brain being stuck in a cycle that feels impossible to escape. Just like any other chronic illness, addiction requires support, compassion, & treatment to manage & recover.
By recognizing & understanding this, we can create a more empathetic world where those struggling with addiction feel empowered to seek help without shame. In the end, isn’t that the goal, after all?
