Any Activity that Produces Rewards in the Brain has the Potential for Addiction.
An addiction to something other than substances is called a "Process Addiction"; addiction to such things as gambling, shopping, food, the internet, exercise, work, or sex. They are often called the "Hidden Addictions" because they cannot be smelled or seen - only the results tell the tale.
While these process addictions have similarities to alcohol and other drug addiction, they are distinctly different. As well as not being apparent, they involve everyday tasks that we do not see as harmful. It is only when they begin to interfere with our everyday lives that they become problematic; that is, spending time and money on one or more of these things to the detriment of other normal activities and responsibilities.
Problem Gambling:
Approximately 4% of the population have a serious gambling problem, and with the increase in venues such as casinos and lotteries, this is increasing, especially among adolescents and seniors.
There are two types of gamblers:
Action: Those who invest money in activities requiring a little skill, such as the stock market, horse racing, card playing (poker) and sports betting. They will study the odds, but it is by no means a "sure thing". The players also tend to be more outgoing and flashy.
Escape: Those who play Bingo, the slots, and purchase lottery tickets, including the "pull tab" variety. There is no skill required; it is strictly a random act. Players tend to be more introverted and play for the escape or numbing effect they get. Many have been abused at some point in their lives.
Whichever type of gambling is causing a problem, or becomes compulsive, the family members are usually the last to know, and need the most help, especially financially.
Treatment may be similar to that for chemical dependency - individual and group counseling, along with some type of aftercare and/or self-help group for follow-up
Some of the symptoms to look for;
- gambling more often than you intend;
- feeling guilty about your gambling;
- hiding your losses from family and friends;
- money arguments;
- people commenting on or criticizing your gambling;
- borrowing money from family and friends;
- "borrowing" money from work;
- feeling a "high" when you gamble;
There is help. Self-help groups such as Gamblers Anonymous, and Gam-Anon for family members are now located all over North America, as well as private counselors certified to help people who realize they have a problem. A gambling problem is a family problem. Therefore, all members of the family require treatment, much like the alcoholic or drug addict.
If you gamble:
- set a money limit and stick to it
- set a time limit and take frequent breaks
Contact me for more information.
Eating DIsorders:
These range on a continuum from anorexia through bulemia and onto compulsive overeating. We have seen a substantial increase in all types of eating disorders in the last few years, with little known about what is the most effective treatment. Research indicates that low self-esteem is at the root of most of these cases and that must be dealt with during treatment. As with other addictions, people suffering from this disorder can be helped immensely by sharing with others in recovery from the same thing. Self-help groups are out there, as are qualified therapists and treatment facilities.
Other Processes:
Work, shopping, exercising, and even the internet can all become addictive if one allows them to take over their lives. Often, these processes will be substituted by people who have conquered another addiction, such as alcohol or other drugs, and they do not realize what is happening. Some will discover they get a "high" from running, or bunge-jumping, or shopping, and since it feels good, they continue doing it until it begins to interfere with other obligations and responsibilities. Again, there is help available.
Contact me for more information. As a Certified addiction counselor, I can help.
