Addiction

What is Addiction?

　A situation in which a person wants to stop but cannot stop (cannot control) a particular substance or behavior even though it is having a negative impact on his or her daily health and relationships is called addiction.

　Addiction is often thought of as a matter of feeling or as something that happens to people with weak wills. However, addiction is also a well-known and medically recognized mental disorder. When a person becomes dependent on something, a system is established and becomes addictive, and withdrawal symptoms occur when it disappears or becomes scarce.

　There are three major types of addictions: substance, behavioral and relationship. Here we will focus on four of the major ones.

①Alcohol Addiction

　First of all, alcohol addiction is a condition in which a person "cannot help but drink daily" and "cannot control the amount" even though it interferes with daily life. It is estimated that there are more than 1 million patients in Japan, but less than 5% of them are currently being treated.

　Alcohol addiction is suspected if any of the following signs are present.

・Increased alcohol consumption and quantity.
・Don't feel like I've had a drink when I'm tipsy.
・Lose their memory due to drinking.
・Drinking becomes a priority in life.

②Nicotine Addiction

　Nicotine is a substance found in cigarettes. Nicotine acts on the brain to produce dopamine, a substance that produces a pleasant sensation. Excessive intake of this substance can lead to symptoms such as irritability and difficulty concentrating, as the brain is unable to maintain a good balance when the nicotine wears off.

　Also, smoking increases the risk of various diseases such as myocardial infarction, angina pectoris, stroke, and cancer.

③Drug Addiction

　Drug addiction is a condition in which a person becomes dependent on a particular drug, causing instability and a change in personality. This can occur not only with marijuana and cocaine, but also with over-the-counter drugs.

　It is said to be a disease that is rarely resolved by feelings and requires medical treatment. In recent years, a movement called "Harm Reduction" has been promoted by the United Nations, mainly in Europe.

④Internet Addiction

　Internet addiction is a condition in which a person prioritizes the Internet over real life and is unable to control his or her time and behavior. In addition to physical symptoms such as poor nutrition, sleep disorders, and physical weakness, it also causes problems for family members and others around you.

　It is especially common among middle and high school students today. In Japan, about 500,000 people are suspected to be addicted to the Internet. Internet dependence is preventable to some extent, so it is important to set detailed rules with parents.