Legal Definitions - addiction

Definition: Addiction is the habitual and excessive use of a substance, especially a harmful one like drugs. It involves emotional dependence, increased tolerance, and physical dependence that leads to withdrawal symptoms when the substance is not used.

Examples: A person who is addicted to alcohol may feel the need to drink every day, even when it affects their health, relationships, and work. They may also need to drink more to feel the same effects as before. If they try to stop drinking, they may experience withdrawal symptoms like shaking, sweating, and anxiety.

Another example is a person who is addicted to opioids like heroin or prescription painkillers. They may use these drugs to feel euphoria or relieve pain, but over time, they need higher doses to achieve the same effect. They may also experience physical symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and muscle pain if they stop using the drug.

These examples illustrate how addiction involves both psychological and physical dependence on a substance. It can lead to harmful consequences for the individual and those around them, and often requires professional help to overcome.