What is addiction?

Addiction is a strong mental and physical dependence on a drug or other substance. Some substances that can lead to addiction are alcohol, drugs, some prescription medicines, and nicotine. Addiction is also sometimes called substance use disorder.

A person who has an addiction may have two or more of these symptoms:

• Needing more of the drug or substance to get the same effect or getting less effect from the same amount over time (tolerance)
• Having uncomfortable symptoms when they stop using the drug or substance or use less (withdrawal), or they are needing to use it to avoid withdrawal
• Using more of the drug or substance or using it for a longer time than they ever meant to
• Not being unable to cut down or control their use
• Spending a lot of time getting or using the drug or substance or recovering from the effects
• Not being able to do the things that are expected of them at work, at school, or at home
• Continuing to use, even though the drug or substance use hurts their relationships
• Having a strong need, or craving, for the drug or substance
• Giving up important social activities or hobbies because of substance use
• Using the drug or substance in situations where doing so is dangerous, such as driving
• Using the drug or substance even though they know it's causing health problems