Addictions: the most effective dietary supplements

Addictions are characterized by a repeated inability to control a behavior, despite awareness of its negative consequences. They can involve legal and regulated substances, such as tobacco and alcohol, or illegal substances, such as cannabis, cocaine, or LSD. There are also behavioral addictions, such as gambling addiction.

Symptoms

Substance addiction severely affects the central nervous system, disrupting mood, consciousness, and motor function. Physical and psychological symptoms are varied and can include dizziness, insomnia, nausea, panic attacks, anxiety, and emotional instability. Sometimes addictions reveal or worsen underlying psychiatric disorders.

Risk factors for dependence

Dependence can be influenced by many factors, both environmental and individual. Key elements to consider include age at first use, level of education, socioeconomic status, and work-related stress. Specific work circumstances, such as irregular schedules, safety-sensitive positions, or repetitive tasks, can also increase the risk of addiction. Other factors include consumption habits related to company culture, business meals, or regular 'pots' among colleagues. Strenuous working conditions, such as outdoor work, heavy lifting, or long commutes, can also play a role in the development of addictions.

Addiction treatment

Addiction treatment is based on a comprehensive approach combining prevention, harm reduction, and medical, psychological, and social care. Preventive actions include educational programs, awareness campaigns, and specialized consultations. The prevention of infectious diseases, such as HIV and hepatitis, is also part of the associated measures. The Centers for Care, Support and Prevention in Addictology play a key role in managing addictions. They offer medical, psychological, social, and educational support, including detoxification, prescribing and monitoring medication treatments, such as opioid agonist treatments. The goal of medication treatments is to help dependent individuals overcome their addiction and reduce the risks associated with psychoactive substance use.