Treatment for Process Addictions and Compulsive Behaviors

People develop process addictions when they become addicted to the feelings of performing a certain action. When people have process addictions, they often have fears that they attempt to control by repeating certain actions. These actions are called compulsive behaviors, and a lot of people struggle with them.

Some people even try to deal with process addictions alone, because they think that no one will understand their conditions. However, process addictions and the compulsive behaviors they cause are best managed with professional treatment, so seek outside help to address your psychological issues.

Signs of Process Addiction

People can develop addictions whenever they feel compelled to engage an activity, whether that activity involves drugs or not.

Process and drug addictions differ as process addicts do not abuse drugs; instead, they are addicted to the positive feelings they get from specific activities.

These activities can include any pleasurable behavior, such as the following examples:

• Committing crimes
• Eating
• Exercising
• Gambling
• Sexual activity
• Shopping
• Working
• Using the internet

Seyyed Salman Alavi, et al. explain that process and drug addictions further differ primarily because behaviors affect the brain indirectly, while drugs physically change neurotransmitters.

These researchers also note that behavior and drug addicts often suffer from the following psychological issues:

• Affective disorders
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Social problems or isolation
• Difficulty completing tasks at school or work

Seek help if you struggle with an addiction and psychological disorder at the same time.

Treatment for Process Addictions

When people realize they have process addictions, they need professional treatment to regain control of their lives. Treating these addictions will depend on each person, but many treatment plans focus on behavior therapy. In these therapy sessions, patients analyze the reasons behind their addictions, what triggers it and what helped them control it in the past. Patients also learn coping skills so they can manage the compulsions without relapsing.

People who are treating process addiction must discuss any mental or physical health issues they also experience, as ignoring these issues could nullify any treatment. Patients must work with their doctors to treat all issues at the same time. Treatment may involve psychotherapy and prescription medications to manage severe symptoms related to other disorders.

Find Treatment for Process Addictions and Compulsive Behaviors

Dealing with a process addiction can be exhausting and overwhelming, especially without professional help. If you struggle with a process addiction and have failed to manage it on your own, know that effective treatment is available for your addiction. Give us a call at 615-490-9376 to find more information about treating process addictions and compulsive behaviors. Our admissions coordinators can help you find a treatment plan that will best serve your needs.