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Understanding Addiction: Definitions and Common Addictions Among Students
- February 5, 2024
- Posted by: SEETHALAKSHMI SIVAKUMAR
- Category: Health
What is Addiction?
Addiction is a complex and multifaceted condition that involves the compulsive engagement in a particular behavior or the consumption of a substance, despite negative consequences. It is characterized by an inability to control or stop the behavior or substance use, often leading to physical and psychological dependence.
Five Different Definitions of Addiction
1. The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) defines addiction as a chronic brain disorder characterized by the inability to abstain from a substance or behavior, impaired behavioral control, cravings, and diminished recognition of significant problems.
2. The World Health Organization (WHO) describes addiction as a pattern of substance use or behavior that results in significant impairment or distress, as manifested by tolerance, withdrawal, and the inability to fulfill major obligations.
3. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) defines addiction as a chronic, relapsing brain disease that is characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, despite harmful consequences.
4. The American Psychiatric Association (APA) defines addiction as a complex condition characterized by compulsive drug use or engagement in a behavior, leading to significant impairment or distress.
5. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) defines addiction as a chronic disease that affects the brain’s reward, motivation, and memory functions, leading to the compulsive pursuit and use of substances or engagement in behaviors.
Definition of Addiction as per the American Psychological Association (APA)
The American Psychological Association defines addiction as a chronic and relapsing brain disease characterized by an individual’s inability to control or stop the compulsive use of a substance or engagement in a behavior, despite negative consequences. It is considered a complex condition that affects the brain’s reward and motivation systems, leading to changes in behavior, cognition, and emotional regulation.
Detailed Definition of Addiction as per DSM-5-TR
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR) provides a detailed definition of addiction. According to the DSM-5-TR, addiction is a substance use disorder characterized by a problematic pattern of substance use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress, as manifested by at least two of the following within a 12-month period:
- Tolerance: The need for increased amounts of the substance to achieve the desired effect or a diminished effect with continued use of the same amount.
- Withdrawal: The characteristic withdrawal syndrome when the substance is not taken or when its effects wear off.
- Unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control substance use.
- Spending a significant amount of time obtaining, using, or recovering from the substance.
- Craving or a strong desire or urge to use the substance.
- Continued use of the substance despite persistent or recurrent social, interpersonal, or physical problems caused or exacerbated by its use.
- Important social, occupational, or recreational activities given up or reduced because of substance use.
- Recurrent substance use in situations in which it is physically hazardous.
- Continued substance use despite knowledge of having a persistent or recurrent physical or psychological problem that is likely to have been caused or exacerbated by the substance.
Top 10 Addictions of Students in This Era
In today’s era, students face various addictions that can significantly impact their academic performance and overall well-being. Here are the top 10 addictions commonly observed among students:
- Alcohol and substance abuse
- Internet and social media addiction
- Gambling addiction
- Video game addiction
- Prescription drug abuse
- Eating disorders and food addiction
- Shopping addiction
- Sexual addiction
- Workaholism
- Exercise addiction
It is important for students to be aware of these addictions and seek help if they or someone they know is struggling with any of these issues. Early intervention and support can make a significant difference in overcoming addiction and leading a healthier, more balanced life.
Overall, addiction is a complex condition that requires a comprehensive understanding and approach for effective prevention and treatment. By recognizing the various definitions of addiction and being aware of common addictions among students, we can work towards creating a supportive environment that promotes well-being and helps individuals overcome their struggles.
Addiction is always considered as an abuse.for eg. Substance abuse, alchohol abuse etc. finally end up like an illness . PPL become dependant on some form of object like mobile phone,games. Even when a person not engaging with it also will be thinking about the same. Their productivity , social behaviour decreases , lose interest in day to day activities even compromise with self care and health. This behaviour need to be addressed as soon as possible.
Addiction is always considered as an abuse.for eg. Substance abuse, alchohol abuse etc. finally end up like an illness . PPL become dependant on some form of object like mobile phone,games. Even when a person not engaging with it also will be thinking about the same. Their productivity , social behaviour decreases , lose interest in day to day activities even compromise with self care and health. This behaviour need to be addressed as soon as possible.
It is essential to recognise addiction and keen to learn how to help adolescents to help deal with it,keen to be well worst with it
it exercise is also addiction 🙁 too much of one thing is good for nothing
Addiction a.is a chronic mental state and kinda craving for mental and physical aspects, drugs for body and mobile addiction is for mind.
Now-a-days Addiction counseling for not only children. It must need for elders also.