What is addiction?

• A. Occasional use with no harm
• B. Compulsive use despite negative consequences
• C. Use only under supervision
• D. Use only illegal drugs

Answer: (B)

Addiction is a chronic brain disease marked by compulsive substance use despite clear negative consequences. It involves strong cravings and a loss of control, so the person continues using the substance even when it harms health, relationships, or responsibilities. Brain changes in reward, motivation, and stress systems reinforce this cycle, making stopping difficult even when the person wants to quit. Tolerance and withdrawal further entrench the pattern, as more of the substance is needed to achieve the same effect and withdrawal symptoms can push continued use. Because the defining feature is this ongoing, uncontrollable use, it isn’t about trying something occasionally or using only under supervision, and it can involve legal substances as well as illegal ones.