What is addiction?

Addiction is a strong, uncontrollable need to take drugs, drink alcohol or carry out a particular activity such as gambling.

What is the cause of addiction?

There’s no single reason why addictions develop. Regularly drinking alcohol or using other substances, or spending time gambling or on the internet, may be pleasurable or relaxing. Some people experience these feelings particularly intensely and have a strong desire to repeat them more often.

Is addiction self inflicted or can there always be a reason as to why the addiction is present?

Has addiction to a certain substance been influenced on another person?