Addiction - where does it come from and why?

Addiction exists as long as there is a need for it. It, like any other mental process, has a goal - to meet a particular need. The desire to escape from reality into a safe place can be fulfilled by alcohol, drugs or virtual reality. Thus a person can feel secured in his or her addiction. The addicted person finds joy, pleasure, adventure, relaxation or whatever in alcohol and drugs. That's why he or she is always seeking gatherings, feasts, just being in a company. Sometimes an addiction can give a sense of freedom. This occurs when some kind of a protest (against parents, for example) takes place. "I can do whatever I want", "I am not a child and I decide myself" - the typical attitude of a protesting child.