Types of Addiction
Effects on the Brain
Recovery and Treatment
Risk Factors & Warning Signs
Famous Addiction Cases
100

This substance is the most commonly abused drug worldwide and often leads to dependence when consumed regularly in large amounts

Alcohol

100

This neurotransmitter is often called the "feel-good" chemical and is released during pleasurable activities, contributing to addiction.

Dopamine

100

This is the first stage of recovery, where a person stops using the addictive substance.

Detoxification

100

A family history of addiction increases the likelihood of developing an addiction, especially to substances like alcohol and drugs. This is known as a:

Genetic Predisposition

100

This famous actor, known for roles in "The Godfather" and "Apocalypse Now," publicly struggled with alcoholism.

Martin Sheen

200

This class of drugs, which includes heroin and morphine, is derived from the opium poppy and has a high potential for addiction.

Opiods

200

Chronic substance abuse can lead to changes in this part of the brain, which is responsible for decision-making, impulse control, and reasoning. 

prefrontal cortex

200

This type of therapy helps individuals identify and change harmful thoughts and behaviors related to addiction. 

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

200

This psychological condition often co-occurs with addiction, as individuals may use substances to cope with anxiety, depression, or trauma.

Co-occuring disorder or dual diagnosis

200

This rock legend from the band Nirvana struggled with heroin addiction and tragically died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound in 1994. 

Kurt Cobain

300

This behavioral addiction involves compulsive engagement with activities like gambling, often despite negative consequences.  

Gambling

300

When someone becomes addicted, their brain may develop a tolerance, meaning they need more of the substance to achieve the same effect. This is known as:

Tolerance

300

This treatment involves medication to reduce cravings or prevent withdrawal symptoms, often used in the recovery from opioid addiction

methadone or buprenorphine

300

Using substances in unsafe or excessive amounts in situations that could cause harm, such as driving under the influence, is an example of:

Risky behaviour

300

This singer, known for hits like “I Will Always Love You,” passed away in 2012 due to complications related to cocaine use. 

Whitney Houston

400

This stimulant drug is often smoked or snorted and can lead to powerful, quick addiction due to its effect on the brain's dopamine system.

Cocaine

400

This process, in which the brain adapts to the presence of a drug, often leads to withdrawal symptoms when the substance is stopped suddenly. 

Dependence

400

These groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA), offer peer support for people recovering from addiction.

 12-step programs?

400

These physical symptoms, such as tremors, sweating, and nausea, can appear when someone dependent on a substance stops using it.

Withdrawal

400

This British actress, best known for her roles in "The Parent Trap" and "Herbie Fully Loaded," has openly talked about her battle with alcoholism and addiction.

Lindsay Lohan

500

This addiction involves excessive use of technology, particularly smartphones and social media, often leading to withdrawal symptoms.

Digital addiction

500

This condition, involving significant damage to the brain due to long-term alcohol use, can cause confusion, memory issues, and coordination problems.

Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome

500

This recovery approach involves a long-term support system with counselors, therapy, and medical care, often in a residential or outpatient setting.

inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation

500

An individual who becomes increasingly secretive, isolates from friends and family, and shows erratic behavior might be displaying early signs of:

Addiction

500

This famous comedian and actor had a long history of drug addiction before turning his life around, particularly through advocacy for sober living and addiction recovery.

Robert Downey Jr