9 Common Types of Addiction: What Kind of Treatment Do They Require?

People believe that addiction is limited to drugs and alcohol, but a person can become addicted to just about anything. Addiction is more complicated than people give it credit for, leading to some people slipping under the radar and never getting the help that they receive. Here are nine of the most common types of addiction.

Three Categories Of Addiction

When doing some research into addiction treatment in Los Angeles, it’s important to note that there are 3 categories of addiction:

● Substance addiction: a physical dependence on a specific chemical is developed. This can be illicit drugs, prescription medication, or alcohol.
● Behavioral addiction: a person can become addicted to specific behaviors, such as video gaming, gambling, and sex.
● Impulse addiction: a person is incapable of managing their emotions, and engages in activities such as theft, destructive behavior, and emotional outbursts.

1. Alcoholism

Alcoholism is one of the most common addictions out there. It can be difficult to diagnose since binge drinking is somewhat normalized in social settings. Alcohol abuse can lead to alcohol poisoning, which can be fatal.

2. Tobacco Addiction

Nicotine is an addictive substance, that most young adults usually pick up before the age of 18. It can become a difficult addiction to break because the body becomes dependent on nicotine to function.

3. Drug Addiction

Drugs are the first thing people think about when it comes to addiction, probably because it’s much easier to notice. There is a wide range of drugs that people can become addicted to, all of which can lead to health problems, financial troubles, and the deterioration of personal relationships.

4. Gambling Addiction

Compulsive gambling is driven by the feeling of reward when bets are made. A person could have several losses, but the compulsion drives them forward. It can put a financial drain on a person’s money and destroy relationships since a person might resort to stealing to fuel their addiction.

5. Internet Addiction

The Internet is practically available wherever we go, especially with the advent of smartphones. Because of the ease of access, some people don’t know how to disconnect from it so they can’t focus on the events going on around them.

6. Shopping Addiction

This is also known as retail therapy; a person uses shopping to make themselves feel better. It can be pretty harmless at first, but it can become quite compulsive and, left unchecked, can result in large financial losses.

7. Video Game Addiction

It is a common addiction since it can help a person unwind and connect with friends and other people. However, it can become problematic when the person prioritizes gaming over other activities and relationships.

8. Sex Addiction

It’s very easy for sex to become addictive, given the hormones that are involved during the process. An addiction occurs when a person engages in excessive consumption of pornography or masturbation or engages in sexual behaviors with partners.

9. Food Addiction

Eating food releases dopamine, which is a feel-good hormone. Becoming addicted to feed can lead to obesity and chronic pain and becomes a natural response when a person is stressed. Most foods involved in food addiction are high in fat, sugar, and salt.

If you fear that you may have any of the above addictions, then speak to your mental health professional as soon as possible to get the help you need.

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