The Different Forms of Addiction

Addiction is a scary place to be. Unfortunately, there are many daily things in our lives that can become addictions. Any one activity that becomes obsessive and something we “need” every day is an addiction. Many people think drugs or alcohol are addictions, but the truth is there are many different types of addictions. Below are a few addictions that you may not have thought about before.

1. Shopping. Yes, shopping can be an addiction. You know you are addicted to shopping when all of your credit cards are maxed out and you simply cannot go more than a couple of days without new clothes. You may have a closet full of clothes, but somehow you need more.

2. Video games. This one is becoming very common, especially in teenagers. With computer games, Wii, Xbox, and internet games like World of Warcraft, many people are becoming obsessed with playing a game. Some forget about everything else in life, including friends and school.

3. Eating. Obsessive and compulsive eating, or lack of eating, can also be considered addictions. If you use food as a comfort or if you punish yourself for bad behavior by not eating, then there is a problem.

These are just a few of the addictions out there. Fortunately, there is help. If you or someone you love is addicted, to one of the situations listed here, drugs, alcohol, or any other kind of unhealthy behavior, then it’s time for help. The first place to turn is to go online. You can find many wonderful helps online for overcoming addictions. A great place to start is MichaelsHouse.com.

Sometimes, the best help you can get is professional help. You may need professional counseling or to go to rehab. Don’t be ashamed to ask for the help you need. There are many options available to get you well and healthy.

Filed Under: Drug Dependence Tagged With: , , ,

Recognizing Signs of Addiction

If you think you or a loved one may have a problem with drugs or alcohol, there are ways you can determine it. You’ll want to watch for certain signs of an addiction, and keep track of them. Here are some of the physical signs to look for when you’re concerned someone close to you has an addiction problem:

Extreme Mood Changes

This can range from being overly happy to sad, angry, anxious, and even overly excited.

Sleeping More than Usual

If you notice a sudden change in the person’s sleeping habits, where he’s sleeping a lot more than usual, this can be a sign of an addiction. Sleeping a lot less than usual can also be a sign.

Changes in Energy

This can go either way, from being more energetic than normal, to less so than normal. It can happen suddenly and be extreme.

Changes in Weight

A sudden and significant gain or loss in weight can be a sign that the person is addicted to one substance or another.

Other signs can include the person being overly secretive, lying frequently, stealing, making changes in their social groups, or having several unexplained outings.

Of course, any of these signs can be related to another cause, so be cautious when approaching the person about them. Gently confront him and tell him your concerns about the signs you’ve been seeing. Let him know that you care about him, and want to help him. Don’t get preachy; just let him know what you’ve been thinking. It may be helpful to get the assistance of another close friend or relative.

If you are the person you’re monitoring and start to believe that you may in fact have a problem, the best thing you can do for yourself is get help. Talk to someone you trust. Help is available, and asking for it is not a sign of weakness.

Filed Under: Drug Dependence Tagged With: , , ,