Is Addiction a Poor Choice or a Disease? - Why Can't They Stop?

Addiction impacts many lives—not just those struggling with it, but their families, friends, and even communities. Is it a character weakness or a disease?

In our recent webinar, FIGHT4HOPE: Restoring Lives and Healing Hearts from Addictions held on 2 October 2025, One Hope Centre’s Counsellor, Barry Yeo explores the science behind addictions and why some people are more vulnerable than others.

We bring you the highlights of his presentation. Follow us on our socials for more highlights from the webinar.

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Addiction Rewires the Brain

Addiction is not simply about bad habits or a lack of self-control. It is a powerful condition that rewires both the mind and body, creating a strong pull towards substances or behaviours that bring short-term pleasure but long-term harm. People may find themselves unable to stop drinking, gambling, watching pornography, gaming, or even overworking, despite knowing the damage it causes. This is because addiction is rooted in changes within the brain, not just in willpower.

The Reward System in the Brain

Science shows that addiction takes hold by hijacking the brain’s reward system. Normally, this reward system motivates us to survive—like seeking food or safety. But when flooded by excessive addictive substances or behaviours, the brain releases dopamine in amounts far greater than that released for natural rewards. This creates a rush of euphoria, followed by a powerful drive to repeat the experience. Over time, the brain adjusts, demanding more and more to achieve the same feeling. What once seemed like harmless relief or enjoyment can quickly spiral into a form of addiction.

Why are some more prone to addiction?

Three factors:

·       Genetics

Not everyone is equally vulnerable. Genetics play a large role, influencing how sensitive someone may be to addiction. Research suggests that more than 50% of the likelihood of developing addiction comes from our genetics.

·       Development

Age and brain development also matter. The brain doesn’t finish developing until your mid 20s—so young people, whose brains are still developing and maturing, are especially at risk as they are more prone to trying things out for first time and taking risks.

·       Environment

Addiction is usually a coping mechanism for deep rooted issues. Childhood experiences and trauma, unemployment, broken relationships, or chronic stress can all make addictive behaviours more likely as the ways of coping with the pain caused by these experiences.

Re-Connect

Despite its grip, addiction does not define a person. By replacing stigma with understanding, we can open the door to hope and change. Recovery begins when people find that connection again - through having supportive communities, meaningful relationships, and compassion instead of judgment.

By seeing addiction as a mental health condition rather than a moral failing, we can restore lives and open our hearts for healing.

At One Hope Centre, we walk alongside individuals and families impacted by behavioural addictions, helping them regain hope and transform their lives. If you need help with a behavioural addiction, call us at 65471011 or email help@onehopecentre.org

Make a difference

One Hope Centre is a registered Institute of Public Character. As a charity, we aim to help persons or family members who are affected by behavioural addictions. If you would like to support our work, please click here to donate.

Or go to www.onehopecentre.org/donate

Share this message. Together, let’s fight for hope.

#BreakTheStigma #Fight4Hope #AddictionRecovery

Counsellor Barry Yeo sharing about the Addiction Landscape in Singapore