Addiction is a condition that results when a person ingests a substance (alcohol, cocaine, nicotine) or engages in an activity (sex, gambling, eating) that can be pleasurable but the continued use becomes compulsive and interferes with life responsibilities. Anxiety and depression are common conditions among those with substance and behavioral addictions.
Symptoms of Addiction
Addiction Treatment
Addiction is a treatable condition. The first phase of treatment is withdrawal from the problem substance/activity. There are both physical and psychological effects that occur when substance-taking stops, including such physical signs as nausea and vomiting, chills and sweats, muscle cramps and aches, sleeplessness, shifts in heart rate, even fever. Emotional effects include depression, anxiety, irritability, and mood swings. Withdrawal symptoms typically last three to five days.
Nicole Leitner, MA Licensed Professional Counselor Certified Clinical Trauma Professional |