Addiction is a chronic, relapsing disease characterized by compulsive substance seeking and use or engagement in rewarding behaviors despite harmful consequences. It’s a cyclical disorder often initiated by experimentation, progressing to regular use as tolerance develops and dependence ensues. The loss of control over consumption or behavior marks the transition to addiction, a state characterized by intense cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and a prioritization of the addictive substance or activity over other life responsibilities. This destructive cycle not only devastates individuals but also wreaks havoc on families, friendships, and communities.
विषयेन्द्रियसंयोगाद्यत्तदग्रेऽमृतोपमम्।
परिणामे विषमिव तत्सुखं राजसं स्मृतम्।|
That joy is referred to as born of rajas which, arising from the contact of the senses and their objects, is like nectar in the beginning, but like poison at the end.
विषया विनिवर्तन्ते निराहारस्य देहिनः ।
रसवर्जं रसोऽप्यस्य परं दृष्टवा निवर्तते ॥
visaya vinivartante niraharasya dehinah
rasa-varjam raso ‘py asya param drstva nivartate
The embodied soul may be restricted from sense enjoyment, though the taste for sense objects remains. But, ceasing such engagements by experiencing a higher taste, he is fixed in consciousness.
