There are many different definitions of Addiction and whether or not this is an addiction at all is still up for debate to this day. The most commonly accepted definition of an addiction is “engaging in repeated behavior despite adverse consequences.” However, addiction can also be considered a psychological illness, a neurological condition that manifests through compulsive drug use despite harmful consequences. People with addictive substance abuse (severe drug abuse) often have an extreme focus on using drugs (drug addiction) in order to “feel good,” which causes them to act out in many unwanted ways. The term “compulsive” comes from the fact that drug abuse often occurs over a period of time, over several weeks or months. The effects of drug abuse may manifest themselves when a person stops using drugs, or when they are suddenly forced to give up drugs. For example, when a person who has been using cocaine for years suddenly decides to stop using cocaine, they may find themselves relapsing into cocaine use. Many addicts who do not have a biological cause to use drugs frequently experience severe withdrawal symptoms, especially after a long period of use. Many addicts report feeling physically sick, irritable, depressed, angry, and even suicidal after years of drug use. While not all drug abusers choose to suffer these negative side effects, most do. In most cases, the mental health professional in a substance abuse treatment centers will use a variety of diagnostic tools and tests to determine if the patient is addicted or not. If the doctor is unable to make a firm diagnosis, he or she will typically recommend drug treatment alternatives in order to help the individual deal with the emotional trauma associated with substance abuse. Depending upon the severity of the problem, the patient may also undergo therapy sessions. In some cases, patients who have developed a dependency on drugs may need to be placed on some sort of detoxification program, which usually consists of strict rules and schedules. A detoxification program may take several weeks to complete, but it is crucial for patients to complete the program in order to break their addiction. once the patient is free of drugs, the patient will be able to continue to stay clean so that they can continue to live normal, healthy lives without their addictions. While addiction is not a disease, substance abuse does require a specific medical intervention in order to achieve recovery.