Addiction is defined as "a primary, chronic disease of brain reward, motivation, memory and related circuitry. Dysfunction in these circuits leads to characteristic biological, psychological, social and spiritual manifestations. This is reflected in an individual pathologically pursuing reward and/or relief by substance use and other behaviours" (American Society of Addiction Medicine, 2013).
This section includes informative books, ebooks, journals, databases, videos, and more to assist you with learning and understanding more about the harms and available resources for those impacted by a substance-related addiction.
There is plenty of debate out there as to why and how addiction to drugs and alcohol can be considered a disease. Most will argue that addiction is a choice, or that you can't ""catch"" addiction. Dr. Doub, Chief Clinical Officer & Chief Compliance Officer at American Addiction Centers, provides insight and answers why addiction is considered a disease.
The brain's ability to process information, emotions and actions is adversely affected by heavy drug and alcohol abuse.
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