[cwarrior]

Addiction is not just about the substance (alcohol, cocaine, heroine) or the behavior (Sex, gambling, video games).

A person is an addict even before that person has that first try. There are many other factors that condition someone to become an addict. There are genetic factors, environmental factors, other underlying mental issues, etc.

[jasallen]

This is a misunderstand intentionally propagated by the 'treatment' system. Sure there are plenty of factors that can play into a pre-disposition, but it is the act or the chemicals that begin a physical re-wiring of the brain. It is because of having new additional receptors, or having blocked receptors, or a number of other changes that we have what we call 'physical addiction', and that doesn't happen until "that first try".

It is also, in almost all cases, reversible. The receptors adapt, pathways change, hormonal sensitivities reset.

[Sami_Lehtinen]

True, that's why you should try to recognize your addictions before falling trapped. Like if you're super hooked to boost from caffeine, it might not be good idea to try meth.