How should we define addiction in layman’s terms?

What does addiction really mean?

The word “addiction” used to be whispered in hushed tones, wrapped in shame, but it has steadily worked its way into our everyday vocabulary. It’s not even always used negatively anymore—someone might casually say, “I’m addicted to that new sushi restaurant.” We’ll explore the reasons behind this shift and what should be done about it in future posts, but for now, we’re focusing on the question: What is addiction?

The American Society of Addiction Medicine defines addiction, in essence, as any chemical use or behavior that is done compulsively despite known negative consequences and repeated failed attempts to control it. At its core, addiction comes down to two defining markers: an inability to quit on your own and continued use despite harm. This holds true regardless of the Drug of Choice (DOC), whether that’s a substance or a behavior.

We tend to recognize addiction more easily in obvious situations—like someone whose alcohol use is causing liver damage and problems at work, yet they continue drinking. But it’s less commonly acknowledged in other forms, like the man who is fired for repeatedly viewing pornography at work despite warnings, or the woman who works 80 hours week after week, missing her children’s activities while neglecting her own health. In each case, the pattern is the same: negative consequences paired with continued behavior. By definition, that is addiction.

We often rank addictions, deciding that some are worse than others. And while society may not send someone to rehab for overworking or training for triathlons, those behaviors can still meet the same criteria. Scripture reminds us in Bible (Romans 12:19) that judgment belongs to the Lord. When we use anything outside of God’s love and grace to soothe ourselves, we step into sin—regardless of how acceptable it may seem culturally or even within the church. Sin is not graded on a curve, and responding with judgment instead of love is also a misstep. It’s worth considering where we’re pointing that finger.

Using this definition can feel both confirming and confronting. On one hand, it aligns with what we intuitively know. On the other, it challenges us more deeply than we might expect. It’s often said that addiction affects about 9–10% of the population, but that figure applies only to alcohol. When we include prescription medications, street drugs, and marijuana—which can indeed be addictive—the number rises to around 16%. If we expand the scope further to include behaviors like sex, pornography, gambling, gaming, over-exercising, and shopping or spending, we are likely closer to 30%. When tobacco use and eating disorders are factored in, we begin approaching nearly half the population. These are conservative estimates, and they make one thing clear: addiction does not discriminate. It spans ethnicity, gender, socioeconomic status, job title, and even faith background.

We are, quite simply, in trouble.

Thankfully, the story doesn’t end there. God has a better plan for us. At The Dunamis Initiative, we are committed to helping unpack that plan—here on this platform, through our resources, and soon in churches near you. Stay tuned.

Want to unlock the power of faith-based recovery for yourself?

If you’re ready to grow in faith and experience the power of Christ-centered recovery, explore these resources from The Dunamis Initiative:

• Stepping Into Power Series
  Explore each of the 12 steps through a Christ-centered lens. Watch the short teaching videos and download step resources guides.
  Visit the Hub →
  Start with Step 1: Surrender →
• Read About The Dunamis Effect — Discover how this faith-based approach to the 12 Steps can change your recovery journey.
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  Buy on Amazon →
• Explore The Dunamis Effect Companion Workbook — Apply the principles of faith-based recovery through guided reflection and exercises.
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• Check Out Prayers & Promises of A.A. — A spiritual companion that pairs scripture with the foundational principles of the 12 Steps.
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  Buy on Amazon →

Your next step toward healing could start with one of these books. Each one is designed to help you build strength, grow in faith, and discover the transforming power of Christ-centered recovery.