Addiction And Addictive Behaviors, Warning: 7 Warning Signs

To think of addiction as meaning only drugs and alcohol is a disservice, it is a broader subject than that alone.

There are process addictions in in addition to addiction to illegal drugs or alcohol. Addictions such as gambling, shopping, and disordered eating are related to compulsive behavior. When a person is actively using they hurt themselves and others. Some questions come up. What is addiction? When does it start and how? When does a pattern of behavior cross the line into addiction?

It is a mystery why some can use drugs or alcohol and not become addicted, while others cannot avoid it. The unfortunate however, are not capable of controlling thier use, cannot stop and get addicted. Social position, economic status, race or religion does not matter when it comes to addiction.

There is no single standard definition of an addict. There is no universal type. Despite a lot of study scientists cannot agree on the causes or cures for addiction. A really difficult part of addiction to quantify is the emotional impact. Getting relief from uncomfortably emotions is a prime motivator for engaging in addictive behaviors. The irony is that using generates more negative emotions that require more relief.

While addiction manifests itself in different people in different ways, here are the most common signs and symptoms of addiction:

Symptom 1 - Unable to meet responsibilities of relationships or at home, school or work.

Symptom 2 - Compulsive preoccupation, meaning one spends a great deal of time thinking about the substance or behavior

Symptom 3 - Has tried but failed to stop using the substance or end the behavior. Loss of control has set in.

Symptom 4 - Engages in the behavior or substance use knowing it is dangerous or in dangerous situations such as driving.

Symptom 5 - Because of the addiction, one stops activities or hobbies that were fun or enjoyable.

Symptom 6 - There is a need to increase the amount and frequency of the behavior or substance to achieve the desired felling or affect.

Symptom 7 - Ones life has become centered around the addiction, isolation from others occurs.

Talk to somebody if any of the above signs are occurring. Virtually all addiction professionals agree that there is a progressive element to addiction. Left untreated, it will get worse.

There is more information available here on addiction treatment.