Addiction, also called a substance use disorder, is a medical condition in which a person continues to use alcohol or other drugs despite serious harm to their health, relationships, or responsibilities. (Source) The American Psychiatric Association describes addiction as a complex brain disorder characterized by compulsive substance use despite harmful consequences. (Source)

In the United States, millions of people live with a substance use disorder each year. Recent national survey data show that more than 48 million people aged 12 or older met criteria for a substance use disorder in 2022, highlighting how widespread this condition is. (Source)

Addiction affects the brain areas involved in reward, motivation, memory, and self-control. Over time, the brain adapts to repeated substance use, making it harder to feel pleasure from everyday activities and easier to feel intense cravings for alcohol or drugs. (Source) This is why simply “deciding to stop” is often not enough. Without support, many people find themselves returning to use even when they desperately want to quit.

Addiction can impact every area of life, including:

• Physical health (heart, liver, lungs, immune system, and more)
• Mental health (anxiety, depression, mood swings, psychosis)
• Relationships with family, partners, and friends
• Work or school performance and attendance
• Legal and financial stability

Although addiction is a serious and sometimes life-threatening illness, it is also treatable. Evidence-based treatment and ongoing support can help people achieve long-term recovery and rebuild their lives. (Source)

Most people who develop a substance use disorder move through a series of stages: experimentation, regular use, risky or problematic use, and finally dependence and addiction. Not everyone who experiments with substances will become addicted, but understanding these stages can help you recognize when use is becoming dangerous.