Maté argues that addiction exists on a spectrum, from severe substance dependencies to socially acceptable compulsive behaviors like workaholism. The underlying mechanisms of these various addictions are fundamentally similar, rooted in attempts to fill emotional voids and cope with past trauma.

The book extensively explores how early childhood experiences and trauma shape the brain's reward systems and emotional regulation capabilities. Maté demonstrates that adverse childhood experiences create vulnerabilities that often manifest as addictive behaviors in adulthood.

Rather than viewing addiction through a punitive lens, Maté advocates for a compassionate, trauma-informed approach to treatment that addresses the underlying emotional pain and developmental disruptions that fuel addictive behaviors.