Which of the following best describes addiction?

Addiction is best defined as a state of physical or psychological dependence on a substance. This definition captures the essence of addiction, which involves a compulsive drive to use a substance despite harmful consequences, leading to both physiological changes and psychological craving. Individuals dealing with addiction may experience cravings, increased tolerance (needing more of the substance to achieve the same effect), and withdrawal symptoms when not using the substance, further emphasizing the persistence and severity of the condition.

In contrast, temporary use of a substance refers to non-continuous or sporadic consumption, which does not encompass the characteristics of dependence. A brief period of substance withdrawal focuses on the temporary symptoms experienced after ceasing use, without addressing the chronic nature of the addiction itself. Lastly, the process of detoxifying involves the physiological removal of a substance from the body, which is a part of recovery but does not encompass the broader psychological and physical aspects of addiction. Thus, recognizing addiction as a state of dependence aligns with established definitions in the field of substance use disorder.