Psychological addiction

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Template:Unreferenced Psychological addiction, as opposed to physiological addiction, is a person's need to use a drug or engage in a behavior out of desire for the effects it produces, rather than to relieve withdrawal symptoms. Instead of an actual physiological dependence on a drug, such as heroin, psychological addiction usually develops out of habits that relieve symptoms of lonliness or anxiety. As the drug is indulged, it becomes associated with the release of pleasure-inducing endorphins, and a cycle is started that is similar to physiological addiction. This cycle is often very difficult to break.

It is also considered possible to be both psychologically and physically addicted at the same time. Some doctors make little distinction between the two types of addiction, for the result -- substance abuse -- is the same. However, the cause of the addiction in either case is quite different, as is the type of treatment preferred.

Psychological addiction does not have to be limited only to substances; even various activities and behavioral patterns may be considered addictions, e.g. gambling, Internet use, usage of computers, sex/pornography, eating or work.