Addiction, defined.

My preferred definition for an addiction is provided by Dr. Gabor Maté in his book The Myth of Normal.

“Addiction is a complex psychological, emotional, physiological, neurobiological, social, and spiritual process. It manifests through any behavior in which a person finds temporary relief or pleasure, and therefore craves, but that in the long term causes them or others negative consequences, and yet the person refuses or is unable to give it up.”

As you can see, addiction is not limited to drugs and alcohol. Sometimes referred to as a process addiction, a behavioural addiction includes gambling, Internet use, sex, eating, and so on.

I hope that your time here will provide clarity and help you expand your knowledge on this topic as there is much to learn. Please visit the Addiction page to begin.