Addiction is a serious, chronic dependence on a substance or activity. The prevalence of addiction costs the U.S. economy hundreds of billions of dollars every year.A person with addiction is unable to stop using a substance or engaging in a behavior even though it has harmful effects on daily living.Misuse is different from addiction. Substance misuse does not always lead to addiction, while addiction involves the regular misuse of substances or engagements in harmful behavior.Symptoms of addiction often include declining physical health, irritation, fatigue, and an inability to stop using a substance or engaging in a behavior. Addiction can also lead to behaviors that strain relationships and inhibit daily activities.Stopping the substance or behavior often leads to withdrawal symptoms. People should not attempt to suddenly stop using a substance or engaging in a certain behavior without medical supervision.Addiction treatment can be difficult, but it is often effective.
