What is Addiction?

Addiction is a chronic condition characterized by the compulsive use of a substance or engagement in a behavior despite harmful consequences. It involves a lack of control over use or behavior, a focus on the addictive substance or activity, and significant distress or impairment in personal, social, or occupational functioning.

 

Types of Addiction

1. Substance Addiction:

   • Addiction to chemical substances, such as drugs or alcohol.

2. Behavioral Addiction:

   • Addiction to activities, such as gambling, internet use, gaming, or shopping, that are rewarding but not related to substance use.

 

Substances That Can Lead to Addiction

1. Legal Substances:

   • Alcohol

   • Nicotine (tobacco products)

   • Caffeine (in extreme cases)

2. Prescription Drugs:

   • Opioids (e.g., oxycodone, morphine)

   • Benzodiazepines (e.g., alprazolam, diazepam)

   • Stimulants (e.g., Adderall, Ritalin)

3. Illicit Drugs:

   • Cocaine

   • Heroin

   • Methamphetamine

   • Cannabis (when use is excessive)

4. Other Substances:

   • Inhalants (e.g., glue, paint thinner)

   • Hallucinogens (e.g., LSD, psilocybin)

 

DSM-5 Criteria for Diagnosing Addiction

The DSM-5 uses the term "Substance Use Disorder" (SUD) to describe addiction. Criteria include:

1. Using larger amounts or for a longer period than intended.

2. Persistent desire or unsuccessful attempts to cut down or control use.

3. Spending a significant amount of time obtaining, using, or recovering from the substance.

4. Craving or strong desire to use the substance.

5. Failure to fulfill major obligations due to substance use.

6. Continued use despite social or interpersonal problems.

7. Giving up important activities because of substance use.

8. Using in physically hazardous situations.

9. Continued use despite physical or psychological problems caused or exacerbated by the substance.

10. Tolerance (needing more to achieve the same effect).

11. Withdrawal symptoms when not using.

 

Severity:

• Mild: 2-3 symptoms

• Moderate: 4-5 symptoms

• Severe: 6+ symptoms

 

Causes of Addiction

1. Biological Factors:

   • Genetic predisposition.

   • Neurochemical imbalances (e.g., dopamine dysregulation).

2. Psychological Factors:

   • Trauma or adverse childhood experiences.

   • Mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD.

3. Environmental Factors:

   • Peer pressure or family influence.

   • Accessibility of substances or activities.

   • Stressful life circumstances.

4. Behavioral Factors:

   • Habitual patterns reinforced by immediate rewards.

 

Impairments and Avoidance in Addiction

1. Impairments:

   • Difficulty maintaining relationships.

   • Decline in academic, professional, or personal performance.

   • Financial and legal problems.

2. Avoidance:

   • Avoiding responsibilities or relationships to focus on substance or activity.

   • Avoiding treatment due to denial or fear of stigma.

 

Self-Help Tips for Addiction

1. Acknowledge the Problem:

   • Accept that you have an addiction and need help.

2. Identify Triggers:

   • Recognize and avoid people, places, or situations that trigger use or behavior.

3. Build a Support Network:

   • Seek support from friends, family, or support groups (e.g., AA, NA).

4. Practice Mindfulness and Coping Skills:

   • Use relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing.

5. Set Realistic Goals:

   • Take small steps toward reducing use or behavior.

6. Engage in Healthy Activities:

   • Replace addiction with hobbies or physical activities that provide positive reinforcement.

7. Seek Professional Help:

   • Consult a therapist or counselor trained in addiction recovery.

 

How SEVEE Can Help

1. Personalized Therapy:

   • Individualized counseling sessions using techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Solution-Focused Therapy.

2. Access to Expert Psychiatric Care:

   • Psychiatric evaluation and, where appropriate, medication support from SEVEE’s psychiatrist, specializing in de-addiction.

3. Support Groups:

   • SEVEE facilitates group therapy to connect clients with others experiencing similar challenges.

4. Confidential Online Platform:

   • Secure and private counseling sessions accessible globally.

5. Focus on Relapse Prevention:

   • Equip clients with skills and strategies to prevent relapses, emphasizing mindfulness and stress management.

6. Culturally Sensitive Care:

   • Therapists who understand the cultural nuances of addiction, especially among Indians and NRIs.

7. Ongoing Support:

   • Regular follow-ups and progress monitoring to ensure sustained recovery.

8. Educational Resources:

   • Blogs, webinars, and tools to educate clients and their families about addiction and recovery.

 

Contact SEVEE: Visit www.sevee.care to learn more about our de-addiction services or book a session. Let SEVEE guide you on the journey to recovery and help you reclaim control over your life.