What's the point of dependence ?

Addictions and healthy coping skills are two methods with which to deal with reality. Coping skills take time and effort to master, "indulging a drink" is easy and with immediate effects. The only difference, having a sip to numb the senses briefly removes the pain, coping skills tend to also address the root issue in order to deal with it and resolve it. If people do not master the ideal way to handle reality, then by process of elimination will make use of what remains available... And some just like inducing pleasure if they have nothing better or meaningful to do. IMHO. -Pat

Addiction is a tool that humans use to avoid the difficult stuff of life- generally relationship stuff. If I deaden my feelings of pain with drugs or food or alcohol or shopping or the internet or..... I can avoid the pain without taking the risk associated with tackling the problem head on.

sounds rather dumb when laid out like this, doesn't it?

Hi Holden, great question.

It's an inbuilt human trait to seek that which makes us feel good. This normally attracted us to nourishing food, warmth, sex and shelter, etc.

'Feeling good' is an emotional experience triggered by chemical messengers in the brain which naturally compels us to seek more of whatever nurtures us.

Unfortunately drugs can also alter the brain's chemistry and artificially trigger a good feeling which we feel compelled to seek more of.

Some people have the ability to avoid addictive substances because they are aware that it's difficult to stop and unlikely to benefit the organism. Others get hooked which can destroy their health & well-being.

Is there a 'point' to your addiction to oxygen?

Oh? You don't consider 'that' an addiction?

Why not? (if you don't)

It is not so comfortable to 'judge' yourself?

Always easier to point the finger?

'Freedom' is no more than a vain belief!

You have no 'free-will', no 'choice', ever, other than in the egoic vanity of your imagination!

We are seeking pleasure beings. When we get some pleasure, like drugs, alcohol, cigaret, sex, watching TV, etc. We want to repeat that pleasure over and over and and then become addiction therefore slaves.

Feel the need of Approval