Addictions: current perspectives

This paper seeks to integrate the perspectives of analytical psychology and neurobiology in order to understand the phenomenon of addiction in contemporary society, taking into account the COVID-19 pandemic. Jung emphasizes the role of the psyche's self-regulation and the development of consciousness in the individuation process. The search for experiences of transcendence is archetypal and can be achieved by the use of some substances or behaviours and can contribute to individuation. However, in contemporary society, many individuals seek to restore internal balance through behaviours that merely soothe discomfort. The difficulty in discerning use, abuse, and dependence, particularly in the case of behavioural addictions, is discussed and neurobiological factors are presented. Empathic relationships play a key role in this process as they can promote the integration of the right and left hemispheres, integrating non-verbal experiences and language, contributing to self-regulation. Jung emphasizes the importance of real encounters in the transformation process. Currently, meetings have become a source of anguish. The author concludes that more than ever it is necessary to invest in the quality of the interactions to prevent and treat addictions.