Medically Reviewed by:

Dr Mateen Durrani – MBBS, DPM, MSc, BCPsych

Last Updated:

July 16th, 2024

Behavioural addiction

Picture a seemingly innocent spark, a flicker of pleasure, igniting a flame that grows wilder with each repetition, cultivating an alarming addiction. It could be the enticing rush of a winning bet, the tantalising allure of another purchase, or the captivating glow of a digital screen that beckons with endless possibilities. These innocuous sparks evolve into infernos of compulsive behaviour, becoming what is referred to as a behavioural addiction, and casting shadows on one’s life and consuming time, relationships, and personal well-being.

What is Behavioural Addiction

Behavioural addiction is a complex phenomenon characterised by a compulsive and repetitive pattern of engaging in specific activities or behaviours that offer immediate gratification or relief, despite the negative consequences that may follow. These addictive behaviours can become all-consuming, leading individuals to prioritise them over other important aspects of their lives.

Behavioural addictions can manifest in various ways, including:

Regardless of the specific behavioural addiction, you may be grappling with, you don’t have to face it alone. Oasis Bradford offers the support and resources necessary to help you overcome your challenges and rediscover the joy in your life.

What causes a behavioural addiction?

It is important to recognise that behavioural addiction is a legitimate condition with significant consequences. It is not simply a matter of weak willpower or lack of self-control.

Various factors contribute to the development of behavioural addictions, including:

• Biological factors: Certain individuals may have a biological predisposition or vulnerability to developing addictive behaviours. This can involve differences in brain chemistry, reward pathways, or genetic factors that affect impulse control and decision-making.
• Psychological factors: Underlying psychological factors can contribute to the development of behavioural addictions. These may include conditions such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, or a history of trauma. Individuals may engage in addictive behaviours as a way to cope with emotional pain, stress or to seek temporary relief from negative feelings.
• Environmental factors: Environmental influences play a significant role in behavioural addiction. Factors such as early exposure to addictive behaviours, social pressure, family dynamics, and cultural norms can shape an individual’s behaviour and increase the risk of addiction. Availability and accessibility of addictive activities, such as easy access to online gambling or exposure to advertising, can also contribute to the development of behavioural addictions.
• Reinforcement and conditioning: The rewarding nature of certain activities can reinforce and perpetuate addictive behaviours. When individuals engage in an activity that brings immediate pleasure or relief, the brain releases dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. Over time, the brain can become conditioned to seek out these behaviours repeatedly, leading to a cycle of addiction.
• Learned behaviours: Behavioural addictions can be learned and reinforced through observation and social learning. If individuals observe others engaging in addictive behaviours or if they receive positive reinforcement or rewards for their own addictive behaviours, it can contribute to the development and maintenance of the addiction.

Signs of behavioural addictions

From the loss of control and preoccupation to neglecting responsibilities and failed attempts to quit, there are signs that can provide insight into acknowledging the presence of behavioural addiction.

Some examples of the signs of behavioural addiction are:

• Difficulty in controlling or limiting engagement in the behaviour
• Persistent thoughts and preoccupation with the behaviour
• Neglecting or ignoring important responsibilities
• Withdrawal Symptoms
• Interference with daily life
• Failed Attempts to quit
• Escalating engagement
• Continued engagement
• Loss of interest in other activities

The presence of these signs does not necessarily mean someone has a behavioural addiction, but understanding these indicators can help individuals and their loved ones take proactive steps towards seeking help and reclaiming a healthier and more balanced life.

How can behavioural addiction affect me?

Behavioural addiction can have far-reaching consequences, touching various aspects of your life. From emotional well-being and relationships to physical health and financial stability, the impact of a behavioural addiction can be significant. Understanding how these addictions affect your life is just the first step towards seeking help and making positive changes.

Here are some ways in which a behavioural addiction can affect you:

• Emotional well-being: Behavioural addictions can lead to emotional distress, including feelings of guilt, shame, anxiety, or depression. The compulsive behaviours and their consequences can take a toll on your self-esteem and overall emotional well-being.
• Relationships: Addictive behaviours can strain and damage relationships with family, friends, and romantic partners. The preoccupation with the addiction and the neglect of responsibilities can lead to conflicts, trust issues, and a sense of isolation or alienation.
• Physical health: Certain behavioural addictions, such as excessive gambling, gaming, or overeating, can contribute to physical health problems. These can include sleep disturbances, weight gain or loss, malnutrition, a sedentary lifestyle, and an increased risk of other health conditions.
• Financial consequences: Behavioural addictions can have severe financial implications. Excessive gambling, shopping, or other addictive behaviours can lead to debt, financial instability, loss of assets, and legal troubles.
• Work or academic performance: The impact of a behavioural addiction can extend to your professional or academic life. Absenteeism conflicts with colleagues or supervisors, and compromised focus or performance can result from the preoccupation and time spent on the addictive behaviour.
• Time management: Behavioural addictions often consume excessive amounts of time, leading to neglect of important obligations, hobbies, self-care, and personal growth. This imbalance can further exacerbate feelings of stress, frustration, and a lack of fulfilment.
• Quality of life: The negative consequences and disruptions caused by the addiction can leave you feeling trapped, helpless, and disconnected from the things that truly matter to you.

It’s important to remember that the impact of a behavioural addiction can vary from person to person, and each individual’s circumstances are unique. Seeking help and support from Oasis Bradford can provide guidance on how to address the addiction and mitigate its effects, ultimately working towards a healthier and more fulfilling life.

Behavioural addiction treatment

At Oasis Bradford, we offer comprehensive and effective treatment for behavioural addictions at our inpatient rehab facility. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with our team of experts, who will guide you towards a deeper understanding of your behavioural addiction and empower you to overcome it.

While psychological withdrawal symptoms may arise when abstaining from addictive behaviours, it’s important to note that detox typically applies to physical addiction, making it unnecessary for behavioural addictions. Instead, our focus will be on therapeutic approaches that address the psychological aspects of your behaviour.

At Oasis Bradford, we provide a range of evidence-based therapies tailored to your needs, including:

• Dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT): Equips you with skills to accept and manage emotions more effectively.
• Group therapy: Cultivates a sense of community and support as you work alongside others facing similar circumstances.
• Motivational interviewing: Keeps you focused and motivated towards achieving your recovery goals.
• Relapse prevention: This allows you to develop a personalised plan to prevent relapse as you transition back to your daily life.
• Family therapy: Facilitates the resolution of familial issues, fostering improved communication and strengthening relationships.

Upon completing our programme, you will have access to free aftercare sessions, ensuring ongoing support as you continue your journey of replacing behavioural addiction with healthy coping mechanisms.

The first step to recovery

Overcoming your behavioural addiction brings forth a multitude of benefits that can positively transform your life. These include enhanced emotional and mental well-being, the empowerment to make healthier choices, the opportunity to rebuild relationships, regain financial stability, improve physical health, experience personal growth, and find a sense of fulfilment and satisfaction. If you’re weary of living under the grip of your behavioural addiction, don’t hesitate to contact our team at Oasis Bradford today. We are here to support you in reclaiming the freedom in your life.