The Different Types of Addiction

February 13,2013

Recently, it was found that addiction was split into two categories. One pertaining to those addicted to a substance as described above, and the other pertaining to those addicted to a behavior...

The basic definition of addiction stands at addiction being a persistent, compulsive dependence on a behavior or substance. For some time, that dependence was characterized as only pertaining to an addictive substance such as drugs or alcohol. More recently however, it was found that addiction was split into two categories. One pertaining to those addicted to a substance as described above, and the other pertaining to those addicted to a behavior or process, such as gambling, shopping, viewing porn, eating, or sexual activity to name a few.

Newly accepted within the last decade, process addictions have been known to be as gripping and difficult to overcome as substance addictions. This means that the processes which some people are addicted to, hold the same severity of compulsive dependence as a substance addiction, and can cause serious mental withdrawal and instability should a person not be able to engage in the addictive behavior.

Substance addiction to drugs or alcohol has been widely known to destroy lives. It tears families' apart; causes financial ruin and can be powerful enough to drive a person to do things, such as theft and violent acts when they would otherwise never do such actions. Process addictions also have equally as crippling side effects. While addictions to heroin, meth and coke all have similar outcomes, the negative consequences linked to process addiction can vary depending on what behavior is abused. For those who suffer from gambling or shopping addiction, financial disaster is almost always imminent. Since the behavior is compulsive and uncontrolled, these people will gamble or shop even after they have lost their jobs, homes and other marks of financial stability. Those addicted to eating almost definitely run into serious health consequences ranging from diabetes, obesity, and heart complications. Process addictions dealing with sexual activity also have another set of serious consequences such as STDs/HIV, relationship failure and many other emotional and health related effects.

For so long it was considered that addiction was plain and simple related to drug or alcohol abuse. Now however, it has been proven that there are two types of addictions in which both can have serious destructive consequences. What many are working on now is designing rehabilitation programs for both types.

Substance addictions are often treated with in-or-outpatient programs, which include detoxification, psychotherapy or individual therapy, and counseling through the process. There are hundreds of support systems set up throughout the country which use the 12-step program, gender specific supports and other means of guidance for those living sober after drug addiction and after rehabilitation.

The treatments offered for process addictions are not as well-known and not nearly as common yet. However, the treatment process is very similar to that used for substance addictions. Therapy is a staple for overcoming process addictions. It is almost always the case that people suffering from compulsive behavior addictions are suffering from an internal emotional damage which may have happened decades earlier in life. Whatever the cause, therapy is needed for both substance and process addictions to resolve the core of the problem. Only after this can people begin to rehabilitate from their compulsive behavior. The understanding of what drives the addiction can be the most powerful tool in avoiding triggers and withstanding the urges to partake in the future. Further support can be specialized depending on the nature of the process addiction. Some recovering addicts may need guidance as how to rebuild their financial standing, to regain their health and how to interact with others in a healthy manner.

For either type of addiction, more knowledge is gained everyday on how to better assist those that are suffering. It is very possible to kick both substance and process addictions to the curb for good and move onto a healthier life.

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Unintentional drug overdoses is a serious matter that has led to many family tragedies and loss of loved ones. The notion of losing someone, whether it's a friend, a parent, a sibling, or a son or daughter, is a devastating one. Florida Center for Recovery has been dedicated for ever ten years in providing addiction treatment services and programs for thousands of families nation-wide, and has saved numerous lives as a result. Our mission is not only to treat individuals who suffer from various drug addictions, but also those who suffer from mental disorders such as ADD or ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and Post traumatic Stress Disorder.

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MARK KILLAR

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