Addiction is considered a pathological state. The term is often reserved for drug addictions but it is sometimes applied to other compulsions, such as problem gambling, and compulsive overeating. Factors that have been suggested as causes of addiction include genetic, biological and social factors.

Drug addiction involves the progression of acute drug use to the development of drug-seeking behaviour, the vulnerability to relapse, and the decreased ability to respond to naturally rewarding stimuli.

Drug tolerance occurs when a person’s reaction to a psycho pharmaceutical drug (such as a painkiller, intoxicant, or antibacterial) decreases so that larger doses are required to achieve the same effect. In effect the person becomes dependant on the drug.

Physical dependence (or drug dependence) refers to a state resulting from habitual use of a drug, where negative physical withdrawal symptoms become a result of abrupt discontinued use. From the point of view of the dependant person, “dependence is duress”, argues addiction researcher Griffith Edwards.

When habits or behaviours such as drinking, drug taking or gambling come to dominate daily life and people find themselves powerless to stop the chaos despite many promises to do so, then it is very likely that an addiction is active. Addictions can be formed to any activity or behaviour which allows people to escape from life and its problems and includes shopping or spending, sexual activities, gambling, food, prescribed and illegal drugs, alcohol and even other people. There is a growing problem in drug and alcohol abuse amongst young people.

Getting Help!

Do you think that you might have a drug problem?
Does someone you know use illicit drugs?
Do you need information about drug addiction?
Do you want to know about recovery from drug addiction?

What ever your situation; here at BRO-SIS we provide impartial advice and information to help you along that road to recovery.

Testimonial

"As a user myself I know exactly how difficult it is to try and give something up, especially when it is part of your everyday routine. I’d also say that since trying to quit I have noticed that the cravings never really go away, however with time it has become easier. The help and support that I received from the team at BRO-SIS really made all the difference. I was no longer battling this by myself as I now had someone to confide in that didn’t judge me. Without this help I doubt I’d be where I am today…I have been clean for six months! Thanx for all you help, support and guidance!!"

Reference: Griffith Edwards. Alcohol: The World's Favourite Drug. 1st US ed. Thomas Dunne Books: 2002. ISBN 0-312-28387-3, P 72. Chaloupka, Frank; Taurus, J; Grossman, M.. Economic Models of Addiction and Applications to Cigarette Smoking and Other Substance Abuse. University of Illinois at Chicago. Retrieved on 2006-09-01.