A new study finds that a non-chemical addiction like obsessive Internet use can cause changes to the brain that are similar to those produced by illicit drugs.
The public’s understanding of addiction seems to be growing, with a more general acceptance of the scientific reality that it is a disease, not a personal weakness. At the same time, non-chemical addictions are still more of a mystery. While some are skeptical, studies have shown that gambling, sex, food, even video games or the Internet can produce addictive behaviors. One recent study even found that Internet addiction can change the brain in a way that is similar to the effects of cocaine. (more…)



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