Substance use disorder/ dependence/ addiction

It may be considered as a state in which the use of a substance/ a class of substances takes a much higher priority for an individual than any other behaviours that once held greater value.

Addiction is characterized by-

• A strong desire or compulsion to take a substance
• Difficulties in controlling substance taking behaviour
• A state of withdrawal when substance use is reduced/ stopped
• Gradually  increased dose  of substance use to get the same effects( Tolerance)
• Progressive neglect of alternate pleasures
• Persistent use of substance despite clear evidence of harmful consequences