Understanding Addiction

What the research says about addiction and recovery, in plain English.

Is addiction a disease?

Whether addiction is a "disease" is a real scientific question — and the answer changes how you treat yourself.

Dopamine and addiction: how it works

The brain chemical behind motivation and pleasure is also at the center of how addiction takes hold — and how it slowly steals your joy.

What is MAT (medication for addiction)?

For many people, the right medication makes recovery possible — and it is not "trading one drug for another." Here is what the science says.

Is alcoholism genetic?

Addiction does run in families — but genes load the dice, they do not throw them. Your choices and environment still matter enormously.

Recovery that meets you where you are

Twelva supports every path — 12-step, SMART, secular, and faith-based.

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In crisis? Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) · SAMHSA 1-800-662-HELP

Twelva is an independent app and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, SMART Recovery, or any recovery fellowship. Program names and marks are the property of their respective owners. This page is for general information and is not medical advice.