Process (behavior) addiction is a mental health issue that involves engaging in a particular behavior repeatedly (even if the behavior causes harm to the person). People who become addicted to substances sometimes believe that they are addicted to the process of doing drugs (rather to the drug itself), but this belief is false. A process addiction does not involve putting addictive chemicals into the body. A few common types of process addictions are sex addiction, gambling addiction, hoarding, kleptomania, and shopping addictions. Seek help from rehab facilities if you are struggling with a process addiction.
Process addictions, also called behavioral addictions, are different from substance use. In these situations, a person fully understands what they are doing, and often that it has negative consequences. Yet, they contain to engage in the behavior regardless of consequences. Certain behaviors might come across as harmless in the beginning. Even if you think the addiction is harmless, it can be an indication of underlying mental health problems or unresolved trauma. Our team at Crestview Recovery can help you with most types of process addictions.
Types of Process Addictions
Multiple types of process addictions happen. Each one is a bit different. Each situation is different. Take a closer look at some of the most common types and why they happen.
Exercise Addiction
Physical fitness or exercise addiction is a situation in which a person engages in nearly constant fitness routines, workouts, and eating regimens. In this situation, a person is likely to struggle with some type of negative self-image or a lack of self-confidence. They continue to work hard, push harder, and hold themselves to very strict outcomes because they want to achieve improvement.
Shopping Addiction
A person who spends a lot of time shopping, in person or online, can suffer from an addiction to it. Often, these individuals have financial problems or may even have a hoarding situation at home. These types of process addictions often occur because a person is constantly searching for something to fill a void they have. It is best to seek residential rehab treatment if you are struggling.
Gambling Addiction
Many people recognize that gambling can be a problem if it is done often. Yet, those with this type of addiction know that but need the rush of excitement that comes from winning. They may spend thousands of dollars just to win a small amount to feel this.
Other types of process addictions exist as well, including:
- Sex addiction
- Love addiction
- Video gaming addictions
- Social media addictions
- Food addictions
In all situations, a person is covering up or compensating for something that they do not have in their life right now but desire. There are many reasons this happens, including unresolved trauma, a lack of encouragement, and constant features of failure.
What Can Be Done?
If you have any of these types of process addictions, it is critical to work with a team of professionals to learn the solutions available. The key is to uncover why you engage in these behaviors and then to find ways to change your thought patterns. It is not about reliving trauma but finding peace. We can do that with therapies such as:
- Mindfulness meditation therapy
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Holistic drug rehab programs
- Individual therapy
Our team is here to help you process what is happening and to offer you a way forward.
Contact Crestview Recovery
With so many types of process addictions, it can be hard to know if what you are facing is something to be concerned with in terms of getting care. Yet, many men and women can benefit from getting therapy. It can help you gain control and stability again. Our team at Crestview Recovery can provide you with the tools to do this. Call 866.262.0531 to gain the support you need.
Since 2016, Dr. Merle Williamson, a graduate of Oregon Health Sciences University, has been the Medical Director at Crestview Recovery, bringing a rich background in addiction medicine from his time at Hazelden Treatment Center. He oversees outpatient drug and alcohol treatments, providing medical care, setting policies, detox protocols, and quality assurance measures. Before specializing in addiction medicine, he spent 25 years in anesthesiology, serving as Chair of Hospital Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee and Chief of Anesthesia at Kaiser Permanente. This experience gives him a unique perspective on treating prescription drug addiction.
