The amygdala, a small brain structure, plays a crucial role in processing emotions, fear, and motivation. Addiction alters the amygdala's function, leading to compulsive drug-seeking behavior.

Chronic alcohol consumption can cause liver damage, leading to cirrhosis, a condition characterized by scarring and impaired liver function.

Depression is a common comorbidity in individuals with substance use disorders. Substance abuse can exacerbate depressive symptoms and vice versa.

Craving is the intense desire or urge to consume a substance, often experienced by individuals with addiction.

Nicotine, the primary addictive component of tobacco, primarily affects the cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Tolerance is the body's adaptation to a substance, resulting in a decreased response to the same dose over time.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health disorder characterized by intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors aimed at reducing anxiety.

Tapering is the gradual reduction of a substance's dosage over time to minimize withdrawal symptoms and ease the transition to abstinence.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a lung condition associated with smoking and other forms of substance abuse.

Relapse refers to the resumption of substance use after a period of abstinence.

Bipolar Disorder is a mental health disorder characterized by extreme mood swings, including periods of mania and depression.

Withdrawal refers to the physical and psychological symptoms experienced when a person stops using a substance.

Addiction disrupts the brain's reward system, particularly the dopamine pathway, leading to changes in motivation and pleasure.

Recovery refers to the process of overcoming addiction and maintaining abstinence from substances.

Social Anxiety Disorder is a mental health disorder characterized by an intense fear of being judged or scrutinized by others.