When do Habits Become Addictions?
Addiction is often associated with substances like alcohol, nicotine, or drugs. However, addiction extends beyond chemical dependencies. Behavioural addictions, which involve compulsive engagement in rewarding non-substance-related behaviours despite negative consequences, are gaining recognition in both clinical practice and research.
What Are Behavioural Addictions?
Behavioural addictions, also known as process addictions, occur when a person becomes addicted to an activity or behaviour, rather than a substance. These activities typically activate the brain’s reward system, releasing dopamine, the same chemical that is involved in substance addiction. Over time, the pursuit of these behaviours can become compulsive, leading to significant impairment or distress in a person’s life.
Common examples of behavioural addictions include:
Gambling Addiction or disordered gambling: Perhaps the most widely recognized behavioural addiction, gambling addiction, involves compulsive betting or gaming, often leading to severe financial and social consequences.
Internet and Gaming Addiction: Excessive use of the internet, particularly social media and online gaming, can lead to significant disruption in daily life, affecting personal relationships, work, and mental health.
Shopping Addiction: Compulsive shopping, often driven by emotional triggers, can lead to financial difficulties and emotional distress.
Sex Addiction: An overwhelming preoccupation with sexual thoughts, urges, or behaviours that disrupt daily functioning and relationships.
How Do Behavioural Addictions Develop?
Behavioural addictions develop through a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors. The process often starts with a behaviour that provides pleasure or relief from stress. Over time, repeated engagement in this behaviour can become habitual, making it increasingly difficult to stop or control.
Several factors contribute to the development of behavioural addictions:
Genetics: Just as with substance addictions, genetics can play a role in predisposition to behavioural addictions. Individuals with a family history of addiction may be more susceptible.
Mental Health: Co-occurring mental health disorders, such as anxiety, depression, or ADHD, can increase the risk of developing a behavioural addiction as individuals may use these behaviours as a coping mechanism or to manage or escape symptoms.
Environmental Influences: Social and cultural factors, such as peer pressure, accessibility of the behaviour, and societal norms can also contribute to the development of behavioural addictions.
The Impact of Behavioural Addictions
The impact of behavioural addictions can be as severe as substance addictions. They can strain relationships, lead to financial difficulties, and cause significant emotional distress. The compulsive nature of these behaviours often leads to a cycle of guilt, shame, and further engagement in the behaviour as a form of escape, perpetuating the addiction.
Behavioural addictions can also co-occur with substance abuse, complicating treatment and recovery. For example, a person with a gambling addiction might turn to alcohol or drugs as a way to cope with the stress and anxiety caused by their gambling losses.
Treatment and Recovery for Behavioural Addictions
Effective treatment for behavioural addictions typically involves a combination of therapy, support groups, and, in some cases, medication. Cognitive-Behavioural therapy (CBT) is one of the most widely used therapeutic approaches, helping individuals identify and change the thought patterns and behaviours that contribute to their addiction.
Support groups, such as Gamblers Anonymous or Sex Addicts Anonymous, provide a community of individuals who understand the challenges of addiction and offer peer support and accountability.
In some cases, medications may be prescribed to help manage cravings and reduce compulsive behaviours.
Behavioural addictions are often poorly understood and highly stigmatized. These conditions are complex and individuals struggling with behavioural addictions deserve understanding, compassion, and appropriate treatment or intervention. As awareness of these non-substance-related addictions grows, so too does the availability of effective treatment options. By recognizing the signs of behavioural addictions and seeking help early, individuals can break free from the cycle and reclaim control over their lives.
Learn more about how Prairieview Psychology can help you on your journey to recovery and contact us for a free 15 minute consultation.
