What is Addiction?

Addiction is a condition shaped by the interaction of multiple factors. From the moment a person is born, they begin to become open to learning and the influences of the external world. Throughout this process, they need to develop coping mechanisms to protect themselves against the situations they are exposed to. Whether these coping mechanisms are healthy or unhealthy is strongly influenced by their environment, parental attitudes, and socio-cultural surroundings. Risk factors include parents displaying unhealthy attitudes toward their children, a history of addiction in any family member, dangerous peer choices, an unsuccessful educational experience, and the society’s perspective on addiction.

For diagnosing addiction, which is a psychiatric syndrome, it is sufficient to observe just three of the following criteria together:

• Development of tolerance to the substance used

• Appearance of withdrawal symptoms when the substance is stopped or reduced

• Failed attempts to control or quit substance use

• Spending significant time obtaining, using, or recovering from the substance

• Negative impact on social, professional, and personal activities due to substance use

• Taking the substance in larger amounts or over a longer period than intended

• Continuing substance use despite physical or psychological problems

It must never be forgotten that addiction is not only an individual issue but a collective challenge, where even the smallest contribution can save a life.

Areas of Work

• Alcohol addiction

• Tobacco addiction

• Substance addiction

• Gambling addiction

• Technology addiction

Symposium on the Role of the Media in Combating Drugs

Awareness Walk to Highlight Addiction and Raise Consciousness