What are CAD?

Behaviours with impulsive-compulsive characteristics in relation to different activities or behaviours (e.g. consumption of psychoactive substances, gambling, among others) involving a potential for pleasure through intense activation of brain structures that make up the reward system. The continuity and perseverance of these patterns of behaviour, coexisting with other factors of a neurobiological, psychological, genetic and environmental nature, can evolve into the cycle of addiction. A situation of addiction can be formulated through the presence of a defined set of criteria, including a strong desire or compulsion to develop addictive behaviour, withdrawal syndrome, evidence of tolerance, difficulties in controlling addictive behaviour, the gradual abandonment of alternative pleasures as a result of addictive behaviour, among others.

Service for Intervention in Addictive Behaviours and Dependencies (2013).

National Plan for the Reduction of Addictive Behaviours and Dependencies 2013-2020. SICAD, Lisbon.