Before getting into the different types of addiction, it’s helpful to understand a few general elements of addiction.

The reward system

Addiction interferes with normal brain function, particularly in the reward system.

When you do something you find enjoyable, whether that’s hanging out with your best friend, drinking a bottle of wine, or using cocaine, this reward system releases the neurotransmitter dopamine along with other chemicals.

Cravings and tolerance

The desire to experience this euphoria again can trigger cravings for the substance or behavior, especially when you encounter the same cues (like a party where people are drinking, for example). These cravings often serve as the first sign of addiction.

As you continue using a substance or engaging in a behavior, your brain continues to produce larger amounts of dopamine. Eventually, it recognizes that there’s plenty of dopamine in your brain already and starts producing less in response to normal triggers.

There’s one problem, though: Your brain’s reward system still needs the same amount of dopamine to function as it should.

Before long, you need to use more of the substance to make up for what your brain isn’t releasing. This effect is called tolerance.

Disinterest in other activities:

As addiction develops, it’s common to lose interest in hobbies and other things you once enjoyed. Even when you want to stop using a substance or engaging in a behavior, you might feel like you still need them in order to feel good about anything.

Loss of control

Addiction usually involves an inability to control substance use or specific behaviors. This can result in job loss, health issues, and relationship concerns, among other things.

In response, you might decide to quit the substance or behavior, only to find that you keep falling short, despite your best efforts.