Although the term "adrenaline junkie" is normally used facetiously and without any genuine implication of addiction, there may be an element of truth to the description. Many of the key elements of addiction are present in the behavior of an adrenaline junkie:
1. An altered state of consciousness (in this case called an "adrenaline rush") causes desirable physiological and psychological effects.
2. The altered state eventually disappears, leaving a "crash" in its wake, usually involving feelings of disappointment and depression.
3. During the crash phase, craving for another rush manifests itself, prompting a search for a new rush.
This creates a pattern which is reminiscent of the classical addiction cycle.