1 The neurobiological nature of addiction
Addiction is a chronic disease of the brain’s reward system, characterised by repeated inability to control substance use, whether alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, cocaine or medication, or a behaviour such as gambling, screen use or compulsive shopping, despite clear awareness of its harmful consequences. This loss of control reflects changes in dopaminergic circuits and the executive functions responsible for regulation.
2 Motivational interviewing at the heart of the approach
Addiction care rejects blame and moral judgement. The practitioner uses motivational interviewing (MET) to help patients explore their own ambivalence towards the substance: identifying what use gives them, such as relief from anxiety or social belonging, and what it costs them in health, finances and family relationships. This clarification allows a freely chosen decision to change to emerge.
3 Making physical withdrawal medically safe
Once physiological dependence has developed, abrupt withdrawal without medical supervision can be dangerous, causing seizures or, in the case of alcohol, delirium tremens. The doctor prescribes treatments that support withdrawal, including nicotine replacement, opioid substitution treatment, vitamins and temporary anti-anxiety medication, to protect the body and make the physical transition bearable.
4 Preventing relapse and restructuring everyday life
Physical withdrawal is only the first step. Long-term support addresses craving, the irresistible urge to use, identifies emotional triggers, reorganises leisure activities and rebuilds social relationships with support from associations and cognitive psychotherapies.
5 Harm reduction and involvement of close relatives
Addiction care also includes harm reduction for people who are not ready to stop immediately. Guidance sessions are offered to close relatives too, helping them move beyond codependency and adopt compassionate attitudes that support recovery.