Some people experience a cycle of addiction with activities that, for most, are mundane. A person with a behavior addiction may get caught up in chasing a “high,” and that consumption has negative consequences.
Examples of behavior addictions can include gambling, shopping, sex, exercise and the Internet.
Behavior addictions can have similar negative effects on a person’s life as substance abuse. Their behaviors put pressures on one’s interpersonal relationships, and loved ones may enable behaviors or cover up for them.
Signs of a behavior addiction include:
- Spending a significant amount of time engaging in the activity, thinking about it, or recovering from its affects
- Continuing despite harmful consequences
- Neglecting life responsibilities
- Having trouble stopping, even if you want to
There are multiple effective therapy treatments for behavior addictions, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Work with a therapist at NAHMS behavioral addiction treatment or other mental health concerns.
