By:Margot Smith

Substance Addiction is defined as a chronic, relapsing brain disease that is characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use. Activity Addiction is defined as a persistent, compulsive dependence on an activity. Addiction increases in severity over time if it is not treated.

Cocaine is a highly addictive stimulant that produces short-term euphoria, energy and talkativeness. It can also increase heart rate and blood pressure.  Long Term Effects: Weight loss, Malnutrition, Increased irritability, Restlessness, Panic attacks, Paranoia, Psychosis  Prevalence: The Canadian Alcohol and Drug Monitoring Survey launched in 2008 reports that between 0.9% and 1.9% of Canadians admit to using cocaine every year.

Cell phones are the new addiction. Scientists have shown that our brains get a hit of Dopamine (the chemical linked to happiness) each time we hear our phones beep or ring. Although this addiction is relatively harmless, it can cause us to use our cell phones at unsafe times, such as while we’re driving.

 Long Term Effects: Cell phones emit radiofrequency energy, a form of non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation, which can be absorbed by tissues closest to where the phone is held. Being exposed to this may increase the risk of Cancer.  Prevalence: In a new public opinion poll done by the National Safety Council, it showed that 82% of Americans believe that cell phone are addictive