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Addiction (Prevention & Treatment of Addictions (Psychological…
Addiction
Refers to the physical and psychological dependence
on a drug, substance or behaviour.
characterised by
Compulsion to use
Loss of control
Continued involvement with the substance/behaviour despite adverse consequences
Irrational thinking and/or denial
types
Substance
addiction
Drugs and substances
Alcohol
Smoking
Food
Process
addiction
Gambling
Gaming / Internet
Shopping
Running
TV
Food
Pornography
Signs of Addiction Problems
Gambling
Gambles more often
Gamble for longer periods of time
Gambles with larger amounts of money
Incurs debts as a result of gambling
Borrows money to gamble
Gambles in spite of negative consequences, e.g. huge losses,poor job performance, relationship problems.
Gambles to escape from emotional problems, worries or frustrations
Tells lies to hide/deny the gambling habit
Alcohol
Loses control over drinking
Feels that drinking is getting out of hand and feels the need to cut down
Feels annoyed when people criticise his drinking
Has cravings to drink in the morning, or needs alcohol to steady his nerves
Feels remorseful or guilty about drinking
Drugs
Preoccupied with finding and consuming drugs
Finds excuses to continue using drugs, despite promises to quit
Conceals drug-taking behaviour, and is afraid of being discovered
Has health and sleep problems
Has frequent accidents and falls
Feels exhausted and depressed because of drug use
Underlying Mechanics of Addiction
Biological
Dopamine
Neurotransmitter - released when the need for pleasure is fulfiled
As the body adapts to higher levels of dopamine, increasingly larger doses of drugs/experiences are required to produce the same pleasurable experience.
The body’s natural capacity to produce dopamine is reduced. However, the need persists and the drug seems to be the only way to fill it.
Mechanism
: Binds to receptors of specific cells in the body.
Upon binding, the drug alters the biological processes of the cell.
Genetics
Association of alcoholism with genetic factors
A1 allele of the D2DR gene
Brain development
Prefrontal cortex has key role in cognitive functions involved in decision-making
Impairment of decision-making is a key feature of addiction
Prefrontal cortex is not fully developed in adolescence (11-20 yrs)
Physiological component
body experiences physical withdrawal lasting days or weeks (for certain addictions e.g. alcohol, cigarettes)
Psychological
Individual Factors
Self gratification
Poor self control
Low self-esteem
Post-traumatic stress disorders
Anxiety
Social Factors
Network of friends with similar addictions
Lifestyle
Environmental – Cultural Differences
Perception in society that it is ‘normal’ to be drunk?
Easy availability of substance (e.g. alcohol as a free gift during promotions?)
Abusive or neglectful home environment
Alienation or marginalized group
Life events, including chronic or acute stressors
Prevention & Treatment of Addictions
Physical / pharmacological treatment options
Psychological treatment options
Counselling
Stress Management
Social Support
Family members
Support groups
Relapse Prevention
