Introduction
Addiction is a complex disorder characterized by an individual’s inability to control their use of a substance, even when its use has a negative impact on their life. It is a chronic, debilitating condition that can have a serious impact on physical and mental health, social functioning, and financial security. Despite the fact that addiction is a well-established diagnosis, its definition, symptoms, and characteristics have evolved over the years. In this article, we will discuss the history of addiction, its current definition, and the symptoms of addiction.
History of Addiction
The concept of addiction has a long history that dates back to the ancient Greeks and Romans. In the early 1800s, the term “addiction” was used to describe a person’s dependence on drugs, alcohol, or other substances. At the time, addiction was seen as a moral failing or a lack of willpower. Over time, the understanding of addiction has shifted from a moral failing to a medical condition. By the late 20th century, addiction was recognized as a disorder characterized by an individual’s inability to control their use of a substance, even when its use has a negative impact on their life.
Definition of Addiction
The American Psychiatric Association (APA) defines addiction as “a pattern of substance use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress, as manifested by at least two of the following, occurring within a 12-month period: (1) impaired control over substance use; (2) social impairment due to substance use; (3) risky use of substances; and (4) pharmacological indicators of tolerance or withdrawal.” This definition highlights the fact that addiction is not only characterized by an individual’s inability to control their use of a substance, but also by the negative impact that addiction has on their life.
Symptoms of Addiction
The symptoms of addiction vary from person to person, but there are some common signs that can indicate an individual is suffering from an addiction. These signs include:
• Loss of control over substance use: The individual has difficulty limiting their use of the substance or is unable to stop using it.
• Risky use of substances: The individual engages in risky behaviors while using the substance, such as driving while under the influence or using a substance in a dangerous way.
• Withdrawal symptoms: The individual experiences physical and psychological symptoms when they attempt to stop using the substance.
• Tolerance: The individual needs increasingly larger amounts of the substance in order to achieve the same effect.
• Social impairment: The individual’s relationships or work performance suffer as a result of their substance use.
• Loss of interest in other activities: The individual spends less time engaged in activities that used to bring them pleasure, such as hobbies or spending time with friends and family.
Conclusion
Addiction is a complex disorder that has a long history and has evolved over the years. It is characterized by an inability to control one’s use of a substance, even when its use has a negative impact on their life. The symptoms of addiction vary from person to person, but can include loss of control over substance use, risky use of substances, withdrawal symptoms, tolerance, social impairment, and loss of interest in other activities.
References
American Psychiatric Association (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Association.
Bressert, S. (2020). Addiction: Definition, Types, Causes, and Symptoms. Psych Central. Retrieved from https://psychcentral.com/lib/addiction-definition-types-causes-and-symptoms/
Krishnan-Sarin, S., O’Malley, S., & Cavallo, D. (2007). Addiction: Definition, Evaluation, and Treatment. American Family Physician, 76(7), 1051-1058. Retrieved from https://www.aafp.org/afp/2007/1015/p1051.html