The word “addiction” is often used to refer to any behaviour that is out of control in some way.
You can be addicted to many things in life; a TV show, shopping or food. The word is also used to explain the experience of withdrawal when a substance or behavior is stopped. Drug addiction is a very complex disease that can affect both our behavior and the way our brains function. Withdrawal from drugs or alcohol is also a very unpleasant experience and sometimes a dangerous medical situation.
One simple way of describing addiction is the presence of the 4 Cs:
– Craving
– Control: Loss of control over amount or frequency of use
– Compulsion to use
– Consequences: Use despite harmful consequences.
Medical detox alleviates this unpleasant feeling and helps pass the withdrawals in a medically safe condition. Once detox phase is over, the person is ready for the following addiction treatment step.
