When we mention treatment for behavioral addictions, many people tend to connect addiction with substance abuse, alcohol, illicit drugs, and nicotine or prescription medicines. However, behavioral addiction is wholly different from the other types of addiction, particularly since there is no substance involved, and issues like gaming addiction, food addiction, shopping addiction, and sex addiction fall under the category of behavioral addiction.
Behavioral addiction vs. substance addiction
Behavioral addiction is as challenging as substance addiction and can even be more challenging in some circumstances. The individual affected by behavioral addiction can face several problems in his/her life often very similar to what substance addiction causes. In several instances, behavioral addiction gets neglected to accommodate the addictive behavior. As the addictive behavior persists, it exerts pressure on partners and other members of the family to make up and cover up the difficulties stemming from the addiction.
Impact of behavioral addiction
Most forms of behavioral addiction do not attract the specific label of addiction. Yet, compulsive behaviors can cause serious challenges in the life of the individual including in relationships and functioning. Such behaviors in turn can also trigger significant stress making it difficult to quit even when the individual wants to. Eventually, the individuals affected by behavioral addiction get tired of the impact of the addiction on their own lives and the lives of other family members. Consequently, what was once very fulfilling and exciting becomes embarrassing apart from potential financial losses that strike at the very root of their existence.
Some red flags
At times, certain activities may be apparently normal and it may be difficult to comprehend that one can get addicted to the activity. Shopping addiction, internet addiction, gaming addiction, etc. are among the examples. Following are some of the red flags of behavioral addiction.
Spending most of the time engaged in the behavior
Getting dependent on the behavior as a means of coping with emotions and “feeling normal”.
Neglecting school/work/family to engage in the behavior more frequently
Experiencing withdrawal symptoms like irritability, depression, etc. for instance when attempting to stop the behavior.
Treating behavioral addiction
Treatment for behavioral addictions is available though the medical world is yet to establish any standard procedure to diagnose this disorder. But behavioral addiction is growing in tandem with technology which is a sad phenomenon. As of now, there is no one-size-fits-all all kind of treatment available to address behavioral addiction. Yet, mental health professionals can be of significant help in diagnosing and assisting individuals in overcoming addiction and leading a healthier life. Talk therapy, group therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy are known to have been among some of the helpful measures.