Drug addiction is a chronic disease that causes drug-seeking behavior and drug use despite the negative consequences to the user. Causes: Drug addiction has no single cause. The frequency to which drug abuse disorders occur within some families seems to be higher than could be explained by an addictive environment of the family. So, most drug abuse professionals recognize a genetic aspect to the risk of drug addiction. Symptoms: Psychological associations with drug addiction include mood disorders like depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. Also, personality disorders like antisocial personality disorder. A destructive pattern of drug abuse leads to significant problems or stress, but not enough to qualify as being addicted to a drug. This pattern is manifested by at least one of the following symptoms in the same one year period:
Recurrent drug use that results in a lack of meeting important obligations at work, school, or home.
Recurrent legal problems as a result to the drug.
Larger amounts of the drug are taken or for longer then intended.
The individual experiences a persistent desire to take the drug or has unsuccessful attempts to decrease or control the use of the drug.
Tolerance is either a markedly decreased effect of the drug or a need to increase the amount of the drug used in order to achieve the same high or other desired effects.
Continued drug use despite continued or repeated social or relationship problems as a result of the drugs effects.