Addiction can be described as a chronic dysfunction of the brain system. This disorder is characterized by repeated use of some substance (e. g. drugs) or repetitive engagement in some behaviour (e. g. gambling). Usually, addiction goes in cycles of relapse and remission, which means you cycle between intense and mild use of the substance. But despite these cycles, addictions will typically get worse over time, and they can even lead to some serious, permanent health complications in the future.