What is Addiction?

Addiction refers to a chronic, relapsing disease characterized by compulsive drug-seeking behavior and use despite harmful consequences, altering brain structure and function. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (2020), addiction is not a choice but rather a medical condition that affects the brain’s reward, motivation, and memory systems.

Types of addiction include substance use disorders such as alcohol, opioid, and cocaine addiction, as well as behavioral addictions like gambling or internet addiction. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (2020), nearly 20.4 million Americans aged 12 and older had a substance use disorder in 2019.

The main signs and symptoms of addiction include intense cravings, loss of control over substance use, withdrawal symptoms, and continued use despite negative health, social, and legal consequences. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (2020), “Symptoms of addiction include compulsive drug-seeking behavior, withdrawal symptoms, and continued use despite harmful consequences, which are characteristic of a substance use disorder.”

Addiction is diagnosed through clinical interviews, diagnostic criteria outlined in the DSM-5, and various screening tools. The American Psychiatric Association (2013) states, “Addiction is diagnosed based on the criteria outlined in the DSM-5, which includes patterns of substance use leading to significant impairment or distress, as well as specific behavioral symptoms such as increased tolerance and withdrawal.”

Treatment options for addiction include behavioral therapies, medication-assisted treatment, inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation programs, and support groups. National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2020, reports that these treatments help individuals manage cravings, address underlying issues, and maintain long-term recovery.

What are the Types of Addictions?

The types of addictions are substance addiction and behavioral addiction. Substance addictions involve the compulsive use of drugs or alcohol. In contrast, behavioral addictions, such as gambling or internet addiction, involve compulsive engagement in activities that trigger the brain’s reward system similarly to substances.

1. Substance Addiction

Substance addiction, also known as substance use disorder, is a complex condition characterized by an uncontrolled use of substances despite harmful consequences. According to the Behavioral Health Barometer: South Carolina, Volume 5, published by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) in 2019, approximately 7.5% of individuals aged 12 or older in South Carolina reported illicit drug use in the past month.

Common types of substance addictions include:

• Alcohol Addiction: Characterized by a strong craving for alcohol, loss of control over drinking, and withdrawal symptoms when not drinking. According to the 2022 South Carolina County Profiles of Alcohol and Other Drug Use, published by the South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services, alcohol remains one of the most commonly used substances in the state.
• Nicotine Addiction: Involves nicotine dependence, commonly through smoking cigarettes, leading to health issues like lung disease and heart problems. The same report indicates that tobacco use is prevalent among South Carolinians, contributing to significant health concerns.
• Opioid Addiction: Includes dependence on prescription pain relievers, heroin, or synthetic opioids like fentanyl. According to the South Carolina Opioid Overdose Death Trends report by the South Carolina Department of Public Health, in 2022, 2,296 drug overdose deaths occurred in South Carolina, marking a 6% increase from 2021, with opioids being a significant contributor.
• Illicit Drug Addiction: Encompasses addiction to illegal substances such as cocaine, methamphetamine, and others. The Behavioral Health Barometer reports that 7.5% of individuals aged 12 or older in South Carolina used illicit drugs in the past month.

2. Behavioral Addiction

Behavioral addictions, also known as non-substance addictions or behavioral disorders, are characterized by compulsive behaviors that individuals find difficult to control despite adverse consequences. 

These behaviors activate the brain’s reward system similarly to substance addictions, leading to significant impairment or distress. According to a study titled “Estimation of Behavioral Addiction Prevalence During COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis” published in the International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction (2022), the overall prevalence of behavioral addictions was estimated at 11.1%.

Common types of behavioral addictions include:

• Gambling Addiction: Defined as the compulsive need to engage in risk-taking behavior involving games of chance despite adverse consequences in daily life. 
• Gaming Addiction: Characterized by excessive and compulsive engagement in video games, leading to neglect of personal, social, or occupational responsibilities. A systematic review and meta-analysis titled “Global prevalence of gaming disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis” published in Addictive Behaviors (2020) found that the worldwide prevalence of gaming disorder was 3.05%.
• Internet Addiction: Involves an inability to control internet use, leading to significant distress or impairment. The same meta-analysis reported a prevalence rate of 10.6% for internet addiction.
• Shopping Addiction: Also known as compulsive buying disorder, it is characterized by an irresistible urge to shop, leading to financial problems and interpersonal issues. 

What are the Different Stages of Addiction?

The different stages of addiction are initial use, misuse, tolerance, dependence, addiction, and relapse. Understanding these stages is crucial for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies for addiction.

The different stages of addiction are explained below:

• Initial Use: This stage involves the first-time consumption of a substance or engagement in a behavior. Individuals may experiment due to curiosity, peer pressure, or the desire to experience pleasure. At this point, use is voluntary and occasional, with no significant negative consequences. However, early exposure, especially during adolescence, increases the risk of progressing to more severe stages. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), early use is a strong indicator of problems ahead, including addiction.
• Misuse: In this stage, individuals use the substance or engage in the behavior more frequently or in larger amounts than intended. This misuse is an attempt to self-medicate for stress, anxiety, or other underlying issues. The individual starts to neglect responsibilities or experience minor negative consequences, but they rationalize their behavior. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that misuse leads to the development of substance use disorders.
• Tolerance: As misuse continues, the body adapts to the substance or behavior, leading to tolerance. This means that over time, a person needs more of the substance or behavior to achieve the same effect. Tolerance is a natural physiological response but drives individuals to increase their consumption, further entrenching the habit. NIDA explains that tolerance leads to the use of larger amounts of the substance, increasing the risk of addiction.

• Dependence: At this stage, the individual relies on the substance or behavior to function normally. They may experience withdrawal symptoms—such as irritability, anxiety, or physical discomfort—when not using the substance or engaging in the behavior. Dependence indicates significant changes in brain function, where the absence of the substance or behavior disrupts the individual’s equilibrium. The CDC emphasizes that dependence is a key component of substance use disorders.
• Addiction: Also known as substance use disorder, addiction is characterized by compulsive seeking and use of the substance or engagement in the behavior despite knowing the adverse consequences. The individual’s life becomes increasingly centered around the addiction, leading to significant impairments in personal relationships, work, and health. NIDA defines addiction as a chronic disease characterized by drug seeking and use that is compulsive or difficult to control despite harmful consequences.
• Relapse: Relapse refers to the return to substance use or addictive behavior after a period of abstinence. It is often considered a part of the recovery process rather than a failure. Triggers such as stress, environmental cues, or exposure to the substance lead to relapse. Understanding and planning for potential relapse is crucial in developing effective long-term treatment strategies. NIDA states that relapse rates for addiction are similar to those of other chronic diseases, such as hypertension and asthma, which also have both physiological and behavioral components. 

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Addiction?

The signs and symptoms of addiction are physical changes, behavioral shifts, and psychological effects. Physically, individuals experience altered sleep patterns, significant weight fluctuations, and deteriorating personal hygiene. Behavioral signs include neglecting responsibilities, withdrawing from social activities, and continuing substance use despite adverse consequences.

Psychologically, addiction manifests as increased irritability, anxiety, or depression, along with intense cravings and obsessive thoughts about the substance or behavior. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial for early intervention and effective treatment. 

The signs and symptoms of addiction are explained below:

• Inability to Stop: Individuals find themselves unable to cease substance use or addictive behavior, even when they desire to quit. This loss of control is a hallmark of addiction, leading to continued use despite awareness of negative consequences. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), addiction is characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use despite harmful outcomes.

• Increased Tolerance: Over time, individuals require larger amounts of the substance or more frequent engagement in the behavior to achieve the same effect. This phenomenon, known as tolerance, indicates the body’s adaptation to the substance. The National Institute on Drug Abuse notes that tolerance leads to the use of larger amounts of the substance, increasing the risk of addiction.
• Health Issues: Addiction leads to various health problems, including chronic diseases, mental health disorders, and infectious diseases. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights that substance use results in significant health issues, affecting multiple organ systems.
• Withdrawal Symptoms: When not using the substance, individuals experience physical and psychological symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, nausea, and tremors. These withdrawal symptoms can drive individuals to resume use to alleviate discomfort. The National Institute on Drug Abuse explains that withdrawal symptoms are a key component of substance use disorders.
• Neglecting Responsibilities: Individuals neglect personal and professional obligations, such as work, school, or family duties, due to their substance use or behavior. This neglect leads to significant life disruptions and strained relationships. 
• Social Isolation: Addiction causes individuals to withdraw from social activities and relationships they once valued. This isolation stems from a desire to hide their behavior or prioritize substance use over social interactions. 
• Financial Difficulties: Spending excessive money on substances or related activities can lead to economic problems, including debt and inability to meet financial obligations. This financial strain further exacerbates stress and perpetuates the cycle of addiction.
• Risky Behaviors: Engaging in dangerous activities, such as driving under the influence or sharing needles, increases the risk of injury or disease. These behaviors occur as individuals prioritize substance use over safety. 
• Obsession with Substance: Individuals become preoccupied with obtaining and using the substance, spending significant time and effort to do so. This obsession dominates their thoughts and activities, overshadowing other aspects of life. 
• Continued Use Despite Harm: Persisting in substance use or behavior despite recognizing the physical, psychological, or social harm it causes is a definitive sign of addiction. This persistence reflects the compulsive nature of the disorder. 

What are the Causes of Addiction?

The causes of addiction are genetic predispositions, mental health conditions, and environmental factors. Mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD, often co-occur with substance abuse, making individuals more susceptible to addiction. Environmental influences, including family dynamics, peer pressure, and exposure to trauma, also play critical roles in the development of addictive behaviors. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, about 40-60% of addiction risk is linked to environmental factors, further illustrating the complex interplay of genetic, mental, and social contributors to addiction.

The causes of addiction are explained below:

Genetic Factors

Genetic predisposition plays a significant role in the development of addiction, with research showing that individuals with a family history of addiction are at a higher risk. Genetic markers related to dopamine regulation are particularly important. 

Dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with reward and pleasure, is central to addiction. Individuals with certain genetic variations experience heightened sensitivity to dopamine, making them more susceptible to addictive behaviors. The brain’s reward pathways, which are responsible for feelings of pleasure and reinforcement, are altered by substance use, reinforcing the cycle of addiction. 

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (2020), genetic factors account for about 40-60% of an individual’s risk for addiction, highlighting the critical role of these biological components in addiction susceptibility. 

Neurotransmitter imbalances, particularly in dopamine and serotonin systems, further contribute to this vulnerability, influencing mood, impulse control, and reward-seeking behavior.

Mental Health Condition

Mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression are strongly linked to addiction, contributing to a cycle of comorbidity. Many individuals with these mental health disorders turn to substances as a coping mechanism to alleviate emotional pain, stress, or negative feelings. 

Anxiety, characterized by excessive worry and depression, involving persistent sadness or hopelessness, can drive individuals to self-medicate through alcohol, drugs, or other addictive behaviors. This tendency to use substances as a way to manage symptoms of mental health disorders increases the risk of developing addiction. 

Research by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (2020) highlights that approximately 50% of individuals with a mental health disorder also suffer from substance use disorder, demonstrating the high level of comorbidity between mental health disorders and addiction. 

In addition, coping with stressors without effective strategies increases reliance on substances, perpetuating both mental health issues and addictive behaviors.

Social And Environmental Factors

Social and environmental factors influencing addiction include:

• Peer Pressure: Peer influence is a powerful social factor that leads individuals, especially teenagers and young adults, to experiment with substances. Those in environments where substance use is normalized or prevalent may be more likely to engage in addictive behaviors to fit in or gain acceptance. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (2020), peer pressure is one of the primary factors for initiating substance use in adolescents and young adults, with nearly 50% of young people reporting that peer influence contributed to their first use of drugs or alcohol.
• Socio-Economic Status: Individuals in lower socio-economic brackets face higher levels of stress, lack of resources, and limited access to treatment options, which increases the likelihood of addiction. Stressful environments, such as poverty, unemployment, and unstable living conditions, contribute to substance abuse as a way to cope with emotional and financial stress. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (2020) reports that individuals living in disadvantaged socio-economic conditions are more likely to develop substance use disorders, with studies showing a higher incidence of addiction in low-income communities.
• Environmental Triggers: Access to substances and exposure to environments that promote substance use significantly contribute to addiction risk. Environments that feature easy access to drugs and alcohol, such as neighborhoods with high crime rates or families with substance-abusing members, increase the likelihood of individuals developing addiction. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2020) indicate that living in such environments dramatically increases substance use rates, showing that those with easier access to substances are more likely to engage in abuse.

What are the Risk Factors of Addiction?

The risk factors of addiction are a family history of substance use, co-occurring mental health conditions, and peer pressure. These factors collectively increase the likelihood of developing addictive behaviors, with individuals possessing a combination of these risks being more vulnerable to addiction.

The risk factors of addiction are explained below:

• Family History of Substance Abuse: A family history of addiction significantly increases the risk of developing substance use disorders due to genetic and environmental factors. Individuals with parents or siblings who have struggled with addiction are more likely to exhibit similar behaviors, as genetic predisposition plays a major role in addiction vulnerability. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (2020), genetic factors account for 40-60% of the risk for addiction, with family history being a strong indicator of susceptibility.
• Peer Pressure: Peer influence, especially during adolescence, is a critical factor in the initiation of substance use. Adolescents and young adults who are exposed to peer groups where substance use is normalized are more likely to start using drugs or alcohol to fit in or gain approval. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2020) emphasize that peer pressure is one of the primary social factors contributing to the initiation of substance abuse in youth, with research showing that nearly half of adolescents cite peer influence as a reason for trying substances.
• Co-occurring Mental Health Disorders: Individuals with mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD, are at a higher risk of developing addiction. Many people with these conditions turn to substances as a form of self-medication to alleviate symptoms or cope with emotional distress. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (2020), up to 50% of individuals with a mental health disorder also have a substance use disorder, highlighting the strong link between mental health issues and addiction risk.

What are the Complications of Addiction?

The complications of addiction are physical health deterioration, mental health issues, and social instability. Addiction leads to chronic diseases such as liver failure or heart disease, exacerbates mental health disorders, and strains relationships, work, and overall quality of life.

The complications of addiction are explained below:

• Physical Complications: Addiction leads to severe physical health issues, including heart disease, neurological damage, and HIV/AIDS. Chronic substance abuse strains the cardiovascular system, damages the brain, and increases the risk of infectious diseases, particularly through unsafe practices like needle sharing. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2020), substance abuse is linked to increased mortality rates, with conditions like heart disease and liver cirrhosis being particularly prevalent among long-term addicts.
• Psychological and Emotional Complications: Addiction significantly exacerbates psychological and emotional issues such as anxiety, stress, and depression. Individuals with addiction often use substances as a form of self-medication, which only temporarily masks underlying psychological disorders, leading to a worsening of these conditions over time. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (2020) reports that individuals with addiction are at a much higher risk for co-occurring mental health disorders, making treatment more complex.
• Social Complications: Addiction severely affects an individual’s social life, contributing to strained relationships, job loss, and even incarceration. Social isolation occurs as addiction damages personal relationships, while legal issues, such as arrests or imprisonment, can disrupt work and family dynamics. The National Institutes of Health (2020) states that addiction leads to significant social instability, with substance use disorders contributing to increased rates of incarceration and divorce.
• Economic Complications: Addiction frequently leads to significant financial problems, including bankruptcy and debt. The cost of maintaining a substance addiction is overwhelming, leading individuals to neglect financial responsibilities, accumulate debt, and experience job instability. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (2020), the economic burden of addiction in the U.S. exceeds hundreds of billions of dollars annually, with costs related to healthcare, law enforcement, and lost productivity.

How is Addiction Diagnosed?

Addiction is diagnosed through a combination of clinical interviews, diagnostic criteria, and screening tools. Healthcare providers typically begin the diagnostic process by conducting a thorough clinical interview to assess an individual’s substance use history, mental health, and overall behavior. 

The DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 2013) provides the standardized criteria for diagnosing substance use disorders, which includes factors such as the frequency of substance use, the presence of cravings, and the impact of addiction on daily life. 

Screening tools, such as the CAGE questionnaire or the Addiction Severity Index, are often used to help identify symptoms of addiction and determine its severity. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (2020), these diagnostic processes ensure accurate identification of substance use disorders, allowing for effective treatment planning tailored to the individual’s needs.

What are the Treatments for Addiction?

The treatments for addiction include behavioral therapies, medication-assisted treatment, and support groups. These approaches are designed to help individuals manage cravings, change addictive behaviors, and build long-term coping strategies for maintaining sobriety.

Common treatments for addiction are given below:

• Medications: Medications, such as methadone for opioid addiction or disulfiram for alcohol addiction, are used to manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings. These medications help stabilize the brain’s chemical balance, making it easier for individuals to participate in therapy and maintain sobriety. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (2020), medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is an effective approach for treating opioid use disorder, reducing the risk of relapse and improving recovery outcomes.
• Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), helps individuals identify and change harmful patterns of thinking and behavior related to addiction. It focuses on teaching individuals coping skills to handle stress, avoid triggers, and prevent relapse. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (2020) reports that psychotherapy is one of the most effective treatments for addiction, addressing both the psychological and emotional aspects of the disorder.
• Inpatient Treatment: Inpatient treatment involves staying at a rehabilitation facility where individuals receive intensive therapy and medical care. This setting provides a structured environment with 24-hour support, allowing individuals to focus solely on their recovery. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (2020), inpatient treatment is highly beneficial for individuals with severe addiction, providing a safe space for detoxification and comprehensive therapy.
• Outpatient Treatment: Outpatient treatment allows individuals to live at home while attending therapy sessions on a regular basis. It offers flexibility and is suited for those with less severe addictions or those who have completed inpatient care. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (2020) highlights that outpatient treatment is just as effective as inpatient treatment when the program is tailored to the individual’s needs and includes various therapeutic modalities.
• Support Groups: Support groups, such as Narcotics Anonymous or Alcoholics Anonymous, offer individuals a chance to share their experiences and receive encouragement from others in recovery. These groups provide emotional support and help reduce the isolation that accompanies addiction. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (2020), support groups play a critical role in long-term recovery, fostering a sense of community and accountability.

Can Addiction be Cured?

No, addiction cannot be fully cured, but it can be managed effectively with the right treatment and ongoing support. Addiction is a chronic condition that involves relapses, and while is not eradicated, individuals achieve long-term sobriety by managing their behaviors and maintaining recovery. 

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (2020), addiction is a brain disorder that requires lifelong management, and treatment programs focus on helping individuals make significant lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of relapse.

Ongoing therapy, medication, and support groups help individuals maintain sobriety and manage cravings, but the disorder requires continuous effort and care.

How to Prevent Addiction?

To prevent addiction, it is essential to educate individuals about the risks of substance use and promote healthy coping mechanisms for stress. Early intervention, strong family support, and positive community involvement can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing addictive behaviors.

Ways to prevent addiction include:

• Education and Awareness: Providing individuals, especially young people, with knowledge about the risks of substance use and the effects of addiction. Early education discourages the initiation of drug use and reduces the likelihood of addiction later in life.
• Promote Healthy Coping Mechanisms: Teaching individuals healthy ways to cope with stress, trauma, and emotional challenges. Strategies such as mindfulness, exercise, and seeking professional support help individuals manage difficult emotions without resorting to substances.
• Early Intervention Programs: Implementing programs in schools and communities that identify at-risk individuals and provide support before substance use develops into addiction. Early intervention has been shown by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2020, to reduce the onset of substance use disorders.
• Strong Family and Social Support: Encouraging positive family relationships and social support networks. Strong familial bonds and positive social connections have been linked to a lower risk of developing addiction, as individuals with support systems are less likely to engage in substance abuse.
• Access to Mental Health Care: Providing individuals with access to mental health services to treat conditions such as depression, anxiety, and trauma. Untreated mental health issues are a precursor to substance abuse, and addressing them prevents the development of addiction.

What are the Most Common Addictions in The United States?

The most common addictions in the United States are alcohol, opioids, marijuana, tobacco, and cocaine. Alcohol addiction remains one of the most prevalent, affecting millions of individuals, while opioid use disorder has surged in recent years due to the opioid crisis. 

Marijuana and tobacco addiction also have widespread impacts, with marijuana becoming more commonly used due to legalization in some states and tobacco addiction continuing to be a leading cause of preventable death. Cocaine addiction, while somewhat less common, still poses significant public health challenges.

The common addictions in the United States include:

Alcohol Addiction

Alcohol addiction, also known as alcoholism, is a form of substance use disorder where an individual develops a dependency on alcohol. It is classified as a depressant, which slows down the central nervous system and impairs cognitive and motor functions. 

Alcohol addiction is widespread in the United States, with the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (2020) reporting that approximately 14.5 million adults suffer from alcohol use disorder. 

Opioid Addiction

Opioid addiction refers to the dependence on opioids, which are a class of drugs, including prescription painkillers like oxycodone, hydrocodone and illicit substances like heroin. Opioids are classified as depressants and are highly addictive due to their effect on the brain’s reward system. 

Opioid addiction is a significant problem in the U.S., with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2020) reporting that nearly 2 million Americans suffer from opioid use disorder. Opioid use is illegal when not prescribed by a doctor, and the misuse of prescription opioids or the use of illicit opioids like heroin is a growing crisis. 

Marijuana Addiction

Marijuana addiction, also known as cannabis use disorder, occurs when individuals develop a dependency on marijuana, the psychoactive drug derived from the cannabis plant. It is classified as a hallucinogen and can impair perception, memory, and coordination. 

Marijuana addiction is becoming increasingly common, with the National Institute on Drug Abuse (2020) reporting that about 4 million U.S. adults have a marijuana use disorder. While marijuana is legal in some states for medical and recreational use, it remains illegal under federal law. 

Heroin Addiction

Heroin addiction is a serious substance use disorder characterized by a physical and psychological dependency on heroin, an illegal opioid drug. It is classified as a depressant, which slows brain activity and leads to feelings of euphoria and pain relief. 

Heroin addiction is a huge concern in the United States, with the National Institute on Drug Abuse (2020) estimating that about 500,000 people are addicted to heroin. Heroin is illegal in the U.S. and poses severe health risks, including overdose and death.

Fentanyl Addiction

Fentanyl addiction is a form of substance use disorder involving a dependency on fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid. It is classified as a depressant and is known for its powerful pain-relieving properties, often used in medical settings for severe pain management. 

Fentanyl addiction has become a major public health crisis in the U.S., with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2020) reporting that fentanyl is involved in nearly 60% of all opioid-related deaths. Fentanyl is illegal when not prescribed by a doctor, and its illicit use, particularly in combination with other substances, has led to a significant increase in overdose deaths.

Cocaine Addiction

Cocaine addiction refers to the dependency on cocaine, a powerful stimulant drug that increases dopamine levels in the brain, resulting in intense euphoria and energy. Cocaine is classified as a stimulant and is highly addictive due to its effect on the brain’s reward system. 

Cocaine addiction remains a major issue in the U.S., with the National Institute on Drug Abuse (2020) reporting that approximately 1.9 million people in the U.S. are addicted to cocaine. Cocaine is illegal in the United States, and its use, whether snorted, smoked, or injected, leads to serious health risks.

Meth Addiction

Methamphetamine addiction, commonly referred to as meth addiction, involves the dependence on methamphetamine, a powerful stimulant that significantly increases dopamine production in the brain. It is classified as a stimulant and is known for its ability to produce intense euphoria, energy, and increased alertness. 

Meth addiction is a serious issue in the U.S., with the National Institute on Drug Abuse (2020) reporting that approximately 1.6 million people in the U.S. suffer from methamphetamine use disorder. Methamphetamine is illegal in the United States and is associated with severe health risks, including cardiovascular issues, dental problems, and mental health disorders.