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Understanding Addiction and recovery
Addiction-
Addiction is a disease. Like other illnesses, there are many causes that can lead to the onset of addiction. The American Society of Addiction Medicine defined addiction as “a treatable, chronic medical disease involving complex interactions among brain circuits, genetics, the environment, and an individual’s life experiences. People with addiction use substances or engage in behaviors that become compulsive and often continue despite harmful consequences.” People from all backgrounds can suffer from addiction.
Addiction is a disease. Like other illnesses, there are many causes that can lead to the onset of addiction. The American Society of Addiction Medicine defined addiction as “a treatable, chronic medical disease involving complex interactions among brain circuits, genetics, the environment, and an individual’s life experiences. People with addiction use substances or engage in behaviors that become compulsive and often continue despite harmful consequences.” People from all backgrounds can suffer from addiction.
SAMHSA's working definition of recovery defines recovery as a process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live self-directed lives, and strive to reach their full potential.