Addiction Flashcards, test questions and answers

Discover flashcards, test exam answers, and assignments to help you learn more about Addiction and other subjects. Don’t miss the chance to use them for more effective college education. Use our database of questions and answers on Addiction and get quick solutions for your test.

What is Addiction?

Addiction is a problem that affects people of all ages, genders and backgrounds. It can take many forms including dependency on drugs and alcohol, gambling, internet use and even shopping. No matter the form it takes, addiction can have serious consequences on an individual’s health and wellbeing as well as those around them. Addiction is not always caused by one single thing; it often develops from a combination of psychological, social and genetic factors. People can become addicted due to mental health issues such as depression or anxiety which lead them to self-medicate with substances or activities that provide temporary relief. Traumatic events in life can also lead some people to seek out coping mechanisms in activities such as gambling or internet use that become addictive over time. Additionally, genetics may play a role in addiction – some people are more likely than others to develop an addiction due to their family history or specific biological traits. Regardless of its cause, addiction has serious impacts on both physical and mental health. Substance abuse can lead to liver damage, heart problems and even death in extreme cases while excessive gambling can result in severe financial difficulties for an individual or their family members. In addition, addiction has been linked to higher rates of depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts due to the negative repercussions it has on quality of life as well as the guilt associated with it. Fortunately there are treatment options available for those struggling with addiction ranging from detoxification programs to residential facilities depending on the severity of an individual’s condition. Professional counseling is also important when overcoming an addiction since this allows individuals to talk through their motivations behind using substances or engaging in certain activities which will help them identify triggers for future prevention efforts. Finally mutual aid groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous offer invaluable support networks for individuals trying to break free from addictive behaviors by providing emotional guidance from others who have experienced similar struggles before them.