PROCESS ADDICTION TREATMENT

Addiction is not only about substance dependence and withdrawal symptoms. Sometimes, people engage in harmful behaviours that are difficult to control. This condition is commonly called process addiction, which involves compulsive actions that offer short-term relief or pleasure.

Some of the common types of this addiction include gambling, shopping, sex, and food. Although there are similarities between process and substance addictions, treating process addictions requires a different approach that focuses on the psychological problem behind the behaviour.

At PROMIS, our treatment program for these conditions helps people discover and explore the underlying causes of their behaviours while developing healthier ways to cope.

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What Is Process Addiction?

Behavioural or process addiction involves problems where a person loses control over certain behaviours and continues to seek them out despite serious consequences. Unlike drug addictions, these behaviours provide a natural reward or emotional boost. Compulsive actions linked to behavioural addictions can disrupt various aspects of a person’s life, and those affected by it struggle to stop the addictive behavior and often need help to overcome it.

Similar to drug addiction, people with process addictions find it hard to control their actions, leading to significant mental and social difficulties. These challenges may include trouble handling stress, managing daily tasks, and feelings of loneliness.

Causes Of Process Addiction

There are many reasons why people may have behavioural issues. Knowing the cause is key to finding a suitable process for addiction treatment. Factors like genetics, social influences, and the environment can affect whether someone develops process addictions at any age.

Process addiction often begins with a fun or rewarding experience linked to a certain behaviour, which can create a cycle of repeating that behaviour. As time goes on, the person might face negative effects, such as feeling lonely, unstable emotions, or health problems, yet they continue the behaviour regardless of these problems. In addition, traits like high impulsivity and a strong desire for new experiences are also linked to a greater risk of process addiction.

Types Of Process Addiction

Process addiction can be classified into different types. We have listed here some of the most commonly diagnosed ones:

SHOPPING ADDICTION

Shopping addiction is characterized by compulsive behaviour where a person spends money excessively and without control. This addiction can greatly affect a person’s life, relationships, and financial situation. Those who struggle with shopping addiction often feel a rush of excitement while shopping, which makes them want to do it more. However, they often feel guilty and uneasy after their shopping sprees, which leads them to hide their habits.

FOOD ADDICTION

Food addiction resembles substance use disorders involving drugs and alcohol. It is characterized by a behavioural problem where individuals excessively consume foods that are rich in fat, sugar, and salt. This compulsive behaviour occurs as these appealing foods activate the brain’s pleasure and reward pathways, similar to the effects of addictive substances like opioids and cocaine.

GAMBLING ADDICTION

Gambling addiction affects people who cannot control their urge to gamble, often risking money meant for important expenses like bills. It has effects on various parts of an individual’s life, ranging from financial troubles to losing family members and relationships. With more casinos and online gaming options available, more individuals are at risk of developing this addiction.

SEX ADDICTION

Sex addiction involves a strong urge to engage in sexual activities even when it leads to various negative consequences. Common signs include losing control, being fixated on sexual thoughts, and struggling to stop the behaviour, even if it disrupts daily life. This addiction may cause relationship problems, impairment in daily functioning, and even increase the risk of acquiring sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

GAMING ADDICTION

Gaming addiction happens when a person can’t manage their gaming habit. This often leads them to choose gaming over other important activities, making it more significant than their daily tasks. Gaming addictions have risen dramatically over the years, not just in adults, but have also affected children and teenagers, causing significant distress among families.

Signs And Symptoms Of Behavioural Addiction

Behavioural or process addiction symptoms may manifest differently depending on the specific condition. If you are struggling with a behavioural addiction, it is crucial to recognize some of its common signs and symptoms so you can seek treatment immediately.

Uncontrollable urges to engage in the behavior
Becoming desensitized to the negative consequences of the behaviour
Concealing the behaviour or refusing to acknowledge any issues
Suffering negative effects when unable to participate in the activity

Struggling to manage or stop the behaviour
Persisting in the activity or behaviour despite its harmful effects

PROCESS ADDICTION TREATMENTS

Video Game Addiction Treatment

Gambling Addiction Treatment

Internet Addiction Treatment

Sex Addiction Treatment

Treatment for process addiction usually requires professional help. If left untreated, the condition can severely affect your personal relationships, education, job, finances, and social life.

At PROMIS, we provide an array of treatment plans and modalities that address both physical and psychological aspects of your process addictions. Some of the most commonly used treatment modalities for these conditions include:

Individual Therapy

Process addiction treatment options typically involve psychotherapy, such as Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). It helps you deal with negative thoughts and change harmful behaviour patterns. In therapy, the therapist assists you in exploring the triggers of your behavioural addiction, understanding how and why it developed, and learning healthy ways to cope with your urges.

Group Therapy

Group therapy offers an opportunity to enhance your communication abilities, reduce feelings of loneliness, and receive extra support throughout your treatment journey. The safe space in group therapy sessions serves as a secure environment for discussing your challenges, worries, and successes with other participants with whom you shared similar experiences.

Residential Treatment

In instances of severe conditions, a residential treatment program may be advised. Such programs offer continuous care and a well-organized setting that enables you to concentrate on your recovery from process addiction. This level of care requires you to stay at our facility for a duration ranging from days to months, during which you will engage in daily therapeutic sessions and various activities.

Medication

There is no specific medication for process addictions, but some medications can help in managing the symptoms of other mental conditions, such as anxiety and depression, that may be comorbid with a process addiction.

BEGIN THE RECOVERY JOURNEY WITH PROMIS

If you or someone close to you is experiencing symptoms of process addiction, then it is best to seek help from professionals. PROMIS is a treatment centre that specializes in helping people overcome their process of addiction and various mental health disorders.

Contact our team today to initiate your journey towards restoring your mental well-being.