Addictions

Addictions refer to any dependence of a substance, activity, or thing to feel normal. Some professionals today assume that addiction refers to an abnormal psychological dependency on such things as: drug/alcohol, food, sex, gambling, porn, Internet, exercise, self-injury, and even shopping. In the case of drug or alcohol addictions, the individual develops an extremely high tolerance for the drug and grows dependent on it. This means that without the drug/alcohol the individual experiences withdrawal symptoms. Some of these withdrawal symptoms, if not medically watched, could be fatal. Most individuals with these sorts of addictions seek not only psychological help but also medical help. A certified or licensed therapist trained in addictions can typically treat addiction to food, sex, gambling, etc.

Addictions Risk Factors

Addictions risk factors vary from person to person and addiction to addiction. Psychological and environmental factors play a large role. For instance, people who have anxiety or depression are at a higher risk for developing addictions. People who come from disrupted homes or who have been abused are also more likely to develop an addiction. Socio-economic status, or the environment that one is exposed to because of SES, plays a role in addictions, specifically drug and alcohol addictions. Some personality factors also play a role. Risk-takers, people who are extremely impulsive, and those with low stress tolerance are more likely to develop addictions than the normal population. Community prevention and education programs can be protective factors by educating individuals about addictions before they ever develop. Addiction development and prognosis is not as clear as we would hope for.