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An alcohol & drug rehab clinic

A chronic brain disease

Addiction is a chronic brain disease which causes mental and physical harm. As addiction to alcohol and drugs becomes established, neurochemical changes take place in the brain of the user which affect their  self-control and decision making processes.

Addiction to alcohol and drugs has traditionally defined the term 'addiction', however people can also become addicted to certain behaviours such as gambling. These behaviours cause a release of chemicals in the brain as a 'reward', and this is what the brain gets addicted to.

Compulsion

People suffering from addiction will experience an overriding impulse to continue their behaviour, despite the harm it is causing.

Denial

This illness is characterised by denial and many people do not seek help until the addiction is severe and causing serious distress to themselves, their family & friends.