Addiction takes many forms. Although there is hardly a clear consensus on how to define addiction – and the term itself has been met with some resistance – it is generally agreed that it involves a compulsive need for, and subsequent inability to function without, the presence of the addictive substance or behavior in spite of negative consequences associated with use. There have been hundreds of different types of addictions recognized or identified, from physical addictions (such as to alcohol, tobacco, or other substances of abuse) to behavioral addictions (such as to gambling, work, or sex).
Perhaps the greatest difficulty of all, however, comes in recognizing addictions to behaviors which, under normal circumstances, would be considered healthy or necessary. Consider, for instance, the example of exercise.
Though exercise has virtually unlimited health benefits, addiction to exercise can be a danger to mental and physical well-being. But what distinguishes exercise addiction from healthy engagement in physical activity?
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