What is Addiction?
Dr. Jasleen Chhatwal helps us untangle one of the most misunderstood conditions
Hi friends,
What if addiction isn’t a moral failure… but a brain disorder?
In our latest episode, Dr. Jasleen Chhatwal helps us untangle one of the most misunderstood conditions in mental health. And if you’ve ever wondered why someone “can’t just stop,” why relapse happens, or whether genetics doom you from the start—this conversation is for you.
Addiction isn’t about bad character. It’s about a brain that’s been hijacked.
Take a look at Dr. Chhatwal’s latest episode now!
The Four C’s of Addiction
If you’re unsure whether something has crossed the line from habit to addiction, Dr. Chhatwal offers a simple framework:
Compulsion – Feeling driven to use or engage
Cravings – Persistent urges or preoccupation
Continuing despite consequences – Physical, relational, and financial harm
Loss of control – Inability to cut back or stop
When these show up together—especially alongside secrecy or drastic behavior changes, it may be time to look closer.
Addiction isn’t defined by how “functional” someone appears.
It’s defined by impairment and loss of control.
With you in it,
The Recovery.com Team