What Are Behavioral Addictions?

Addiction is a term that gets thrown around a lot without a true appreciation for what it really means. People who have a strong love of something in a controlled manner and can stop at any time aren't addicted. Addiction comes when the compulsion is overbearing, and people start seeking highs with minimal return. This sort of pattern doesn't just relate to substance abuse, such as alcohol and drug addiction. Addiction can strike in negative areas of our behavioral health. As soon as a behavior becomes unhealthy due to its impact on our time, physical health, mental health, and relationships, it's time to seek help. Here are some examples of behavioral addictions to be aware of.

Common Examples Of Behavioral Addictions

1) Gambling

Gambling addiction is more widely talked about and is a reason there are strict gambling laws in some states. Many of us can play a slot machine a couple of times and get the occasional scratch card. However, others have that overwhelming need to try again and again until they win. It stops being fun as people chase the feeling, and they can end up losing a lot of money.

2) Sex Addiction

While some downplay the idea of sex addiction and believe that addicts are merely bragging about accomplishments, that isn't the case at all. It's all about the destructive compulsion for sexual gratification and the impact this has on people. As with substance abuse, too much of a good thing can have serious repercussions on our lives. Sex addiction can make it harder to achieve satisfaction and damage relationships in the process. Sufferers may go outside of relationships and are more at risk of STDs if they aren't careful.

3) Shopping

Again, this is something laughed off by those who don't understand the problem. There are lots of people who buy a lot of expensive items with disposable income on weekends and are completely in control of their actions. There are also many more who hide their spending habits and purchases from loved ones because they know they are out of control. When they keep spending and getting into debt on things they don't need and don't really want, that's a problem. The rise of online shopping has only made this easier.

4) Stealing

Sticking with the shopping theme, others are more inclined to take items without paying to get a thrill that way. Kleptomania can come in different forms. It can start out innocently enough, in their eyes, with small, low-cost items and eating loose items at grocery stores. The problem is that eventually, the thrill diminishes, and they need bigger challenges. This compulsion to steal can progress to serious shoplifting of high-price items that they have no intention of ever using. Of course, the risk here goes further than an addictive behavior trait, and there is the risk of serious criminal charges.

5) Screens

Addiction to screens has increased in recent years with the accessibility of mobile devices and the evolution of online tech. Screen time isn't confined to the hours at our desks at work or watching our favorite shows on television. We have endless streams of short-form content and social media posts that some find impossible to ignore. Many of us don't realize how long we spend scrolling until it starts affecting our productivity and quality time with others. If we can't leave the devices at home when we go out or stop looking at them at the dinner table, it's a sign of a potential problem.

6) Video games

Video games deserve their own category here. They are tied into this screen addiction because of the link between addiction and mobile gaming. Mobile games are designed to keep people engaged for long periods. The short levels and challenges provide boosts of positive hormones with every achievement, and the animations keep us glued to the screen. Before long, a 10-minute coffee break has been 30 minutes. This can have a serious impact on our work and time with others if we're not careful. That's where centers like Forrest Behavioral Health can help.

7) Food

Food addiction is a sensitive subject and one that's difficult to admit to. Most of us will have our weaknesses with food where we indulge or have unhealthy items we can't resist. However, a healthy relationship with food comes from eating in moderation and maintaining a sense of balance with our diets. Strong cravings for sweet and salty food that lead to binging and overeating are a problem, especially if you find yourself continuing to eat without any sense of hunger or enjoyment. Overeating can signify deeper emotional trauma. Binging and purging are signs of a serious eating disorder.

8) Work

This final example of behavioral health addictions is another where people may laugh at the idea. However, some people get so caught up in their work that it becomes an addition. This isn't just about working hard to meet deadlines and provide for a family. It is a deeper compulsion to always be working in some form because they feel they have to. Overworking could come from a fear of failure or fear of missing out on career and financial opportunities. It could be a way to avoid deeper emotional issues. There's always something they could be doing - to the point where scheduled work hours don't exist and family and leisure time suffer.

Behavioral Addictions Deserve Professional Help

There is no shame in admitting you have a problem in any of these areas. In fact, admitting to a problem is a sign of strength and shows that you're ready to make a change. You don't have to do this alone. There are specialists in behavioral health that can guide you through your recovery, much like an addiction program for drugs and alcohol. You'll get the CBT treatment, alternative therapies, and group sessions needed to understand your behavior and how to break the patterns. With time and commitment to the program, you can come out even stronger and healthier.

Related Article:

• The Role Of Mental Health In Addiction Recovery
• Taking the First Step: Tips for Seeking Help with Addiction