Behavioral addiction is just as controlling as addiction related to the use of drugs and alcohol. In many ways, the two are linked. Many engage in behaviors that are unhealthy, including using drugs and alcohol without recognizing the risks. Yet, over time, any negative action performed over and over again can become addictive. At Midwest Recovery Center, we offer help for drug addiction as well as other forms.
What Are Addictive Behaviors?
Behavioral addiction occurs when a person engages in activities that are not desirable in a compulsive manner. They may not use drugs or alcohol during this process, but they are still engaging in activities with such compulsivity that they cannot stop doing so. Consider a few of the most common addictive behaviors:
- Gambling addiction, including online and in-person gambling
- Shopping addiction often resulting in buying needlessly.
- Eating disorders including binge eating that involves consuming large amounts of food in short periods of time
- Pornography addiction, as well as sex addiction, can be reckless behavior.
- Fitness addiction is exercising so much so or compulsively that it becomes unhealthy.
There are other types of addictive behaviors as well. This includes addictions to social media, internet use, sports betting, sleeping, and much more.
Why Does This Type of Addiction Happen?
The process is the same as it is for drug addiction. A person engages in an activity that brings a sense of high. This is due to the release of dopamine. When this happens, the brain’s neurotransmitters are motivated to seek out that action in a repeated fashion because it brings pleasure. That’s the way the brain is programmed. The more a drug or behavior is engaged in, the more dopamine is released. This causes the reward and motivation scenario to take place – the brain continues to seek out the actions that create joy.
Most often, behavioral addiction does not cause the same level of risk. That is, it is not likely to cause health risks like drug addiction does. However, it does create challenges when those unwanted behaviors become so compulsive that other areas of life are impacted, including relationships, responsibilities at home or work, or finances.
What Can Be Done About Addiction Like This?
In many ways, addictive behaviors like this require treatment from a professional. Even if a person wants to stop engaging in those behaviors, they may be unable to stop because of the neurotransmitters’ changes in the brain. Your brain is now wired to seek out exposure to these behaviors. In professional treatment, it’s possible to learn how to safely break those habits so that you don’t continue to see them worsen.
Our team at Midwest Recovery Center provides a range of support for drug addiction. Yet, we can also help you with other addictive behaviors. The key here is to recognize that without treatment for addictive behaviors, they can spiral out of control leading to a range of adverse outcomes. This can impact every facet of your life. Yet, it is nearly impossible to stop engaging in these activities without professional help to guide you.
We can help. We offer treatment through therapies like the following that can change outcomes:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Dialectical behavior therapy
- Group therapy programs
- Trauma therapy programs
- Family therapy programs
Are You Ready to Get Help? Let Midwest Recovery Center Offer the Help You Need
When it comes to addiction, there’s no time to wait to get help. Even if you’re unsure that drug addiction is occurring, the sooner you reach out for help, the sooner life can get back to being healthy and productive. Midwest Recovery Center can help. Learn how by calling us at 833.627.0039 or reaching out to our team online.
