Addiction is defined as the ongoing use of mood-altering substances or activity, such as alcohol and drugs, despite adverse consequences. The inherent tendency in most of us is to negatively judge a person who is suffering from any addiction. Our judgement implies we believe there is an element of voluntariness in the condition. So what causes addiction? A percentage of the population has a biological predisposition to addictive behaviours; factors like genes, early-life experiences, such as isolation or abuse, certain personality problems, such as impulsivity and poor coping skills can contribute to a predisposition to addiction. However, a predisposition alone is generally not enough to cause the disease. Often, a person is influenced by social factors, such as peers and societal and familial norms and associated psychiatric problems (e.g. presence of anxiety, depression).