There are several definitions for the word addiction. Even though we have all heard the word; it may or may not mean what one thinks it means.
According to Dr. Nora Volkow, who is the Director of The National Institute on Drug Abuse, defines an addiction as follows:
“An addiction is a brain disease, which causes a person to engage in behavior(s) which can have the potential for dire consequences. The person understands and is aware of this, but still engages in the behavior(s).”
As such, a person can be addicted to things other than substances like drugs and/or alcohol. A person, based on Dr. Volkow’s definition, may be addicted to, for example: food, sex, money, power, video games, dieting, plastic surgery or gambling. A person who has essentially lost control over their behaviors, relative to engaging in the behavior despite the potential for dire consequences, has, by definition, an addiction.
There are other ways addictions are diagnosed. The most official way, is by following the diagnostic criteria in a book produced by The American Psychiatric Association. The book is called: The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fifth edition, also known as the DSM 5. The DSM 5 contains the criteria for each and every mental disorder, including, what it calls: Substance Use Disorders. A clinician is trained to match up the symptoms a person has, with the diagnostic criteria. This process determines if an individual has an official diagnosis, and what the diagnosis is called. In that way, a treatment plan can be created to suit the diagnosis.
If you or someone you know, has a problem with an addiction, and wants help; call today-The Drug and Alcohol Detox Clinic of South Mississippi @000.000.0000. Or check out their website @ web. You can also follow them on Twitter for latest news and update! There’s Still Hope!
