Some of this topic is discussed elsewheres in threads and short themes.

My understanding is that we humans can.....make poor decisions about life. We might choose to eat too much food because we are lonely.

Or we might drink too much alcohol because it "makes me feel alive".

I walk past people alone in a pub ( Aussie talk for bar ) where they sit in front of a slot machine with a drink in their hand and watch their money disappear.

Gambling, work, sex, shopping, stealing, working out in a gym......these are other forms an addiction might take.

The readings I have done on this subject suggest that there might be a chemical absence in the brain that contributes to this use of external substances and or activities that change us humans emotionally or physically.

Other patterns apparent with addictions include:

* They escalate. One needs a STRONGER hit to get the same buzz due to resistance building up.

* Its a coping mechanism for emotional states. Boredom, loneliness, anger, fatigue are some of the emotional triggers that appear to set off addictive behaviour.

* And the addict may not even know their behaviour or attitudes are an indication that something is wrong. And when confronted with some advice or comment they deny it. DENIAL is part of the self delusion.

Let us know if this theme is something that warrants discussion and education about.

Thanks for letting me share.  

Yankee Bob,

I have more questions that offerings.

What is the difference between addictions which result are an emotional addiction and a physical addiction?  I have been a smoker and I have understood that to be a physical addiction with resulting emotional reactions when I tried to give up.  

I think I understand you musings - you have a story to tell as well as pose this for our reflection don't you.  I think my questions are more concerned with what is at the core of the issues you raise.  I agree that addicitions are reactions to a person addressing a need in themselves - and to this extent if it is physical or emotional I am not sure it matters.  My question is in working to identify the feelings that in the short terms appear to be addressed by substances or behaviour that allow individuals to feel better - but then are "hooked".

What could be alternatives?  Those slot machines, alcohol, and tobacco companies seem to make so much money - what kind of process could be greater than their presence and attraction for people with needs.  ant:)