What is Addiction?
Addiction is a condition in which a person feels a strong, often overwhelming need to engage in a behavior or use a substance, even when it causes harm. It can affect the brain, body, and emotions, making it difficult to stop on your own.

Addiction

Man in yellow shirt and jeans, sitting against a wall, head in hands, bottle in the foreground.

What does it involve?

Addictions can involve:

  • Substances: alcohol, drugs, nicotine, prescription medications
  • Behaviors: gambling, gaming, shopping, food, or other habits that feel out of control
How Addiction Affects People

Addiction can impact many areas of life, including:


  • Relationships with family, friends, or coworkers
  • Physical and mental health
  • Work, school, or daily responsibilities
  • Self-esteem and sense of control
You're Not Alone

Addiction is not a moral failing—it is a medical and psychological condition. Recovery is possible with support, understanding, and the right tools.

Hope and Healing

Addiction does not define you. With guidance, support, and patience, you can regain control, rebuild your life, and find hope for the future.


Recovery is possible.

Common Patterns and Triggers

Addictions often develop as a way to cope with stress, emotions, or difficult experiences.

  • Common Patterns

    • Using substances or behaviors to numb emotional pain

    • Feeling unable to control the urge despite negative consequences

    • Experiencing cravings or withdrawal symptoms when not engaging in the behavior
  • Triggers

    Things that prompt cravings or urges can be:


    • Stressful situations

    • Emotional distress, like sadness, anger, or anxiety

    • Certain places, people, or routines associated with the behavior

Paths to Recovery

Recovery from addiction is possible and looks different for everyone. Some ways to begin healing include:

  • Therapy

    Talking with a counselor can help uncover underlying causes and develop healthier coping strategies.

  • Support Groups

    Connecting with others who understand your experiences can reduce isolation and provide encouragement.

  • Medical Support

    In some cases, medications can help manage cravings or withdrawal symptoms.

  • Lifestyle Changes

    Building routines, self-care practices, and positive habits supports long-term recovery.

Nuggets Video

Nuggets is a simple animation with a powerful message. It follows a kiwi bird as it discovers a substance that brings instant pleasure — but with each use, the high fades, the crash deepens, and the cycle tightens.



In just a few minutes, it captures the psychological path of addiction: reward, repetition, tolerance, and loss of control. No dialogue needed — just raw, relatable truth.


Support Through Healing and Change

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