Addiction comes from a psychological or physical dependency on alcohol, drugs, or even behaviors. In psychology, addiction refers to a compulsive pattern of behavior where a person can’t control their substance use or activity, despite harmful consequences. It involves biological and environmental factors and is often associated with brain reward system changes; treatment usually requires therapy, medication, and support from a community.
Some examples of behavioral or psychological addictions are:
Gambling addiction: they may constantly urge to gamble, even when it negatively impacts their finances and personal relationships.
Video game addiction: People with this addiction may spend excessive time playing it to the point where it affects their daily functioning.
Shopping addiction: People with this addiction may feel compelled to shop excessively, leading to financial problems and relationship difficulties.
Sex addiction involves:
A persistent need for sexual activity.
Leading to risky sexual behavior.
There are many ways of improving and breaking addictions: seeking professional support, accepting a problem, identifying the triggers, changing the environment, working out is a healthy way to enhance the addicted behaviors, and accepting your past (OHR,2021).