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Dr. Ramzi Haddad, a psychiatrist, explains to Annahar that addiction, despite its broad definition, is based on essential traits, most notably the loss of control over using a substance or engaging in a behavior, and continuing despite awareness of the harms. This often negatively impacts several aspects of an individual’s life, such as work, studies, and social and family relationships, in addition to mental and physical health.

Addiction cannot be reduced to the question of “why.” It often results from the interplay of biological, psychological, and environmental factors, including genetic predisposition, brain changes, psychological disorders, stress, and social environment. It may begin out of curiosity or through influence from others. Although some cases are associated with difficult family circumstances, such as family breakdown or tension, the family is not a direct cause, and it is not fair to place the blame entirely on them.

Expressive image (Pexels)

Denial of addiction is also a common trait. In its early stages, the sense of pleasure and absence of immediate consequences may reinforce the illusion of control, leading the person to believe they can stop at any time, before the loss of control gradually becomes entrenched.

There is no conclusive evidence that wars and crises directly increase addiction rates, but they may alter usage patterns depending on the availability and cost of substances. The clearest impact lies in treatment, as centers’ capacities decline, access to services becomes more difficult, and financial burdens increase, limiting individuals’ ability to seek help.

Ultimately, crises may not always change the number of addicts, but they do change their chances of survival.