Addictive Behavior

Addictive behavior is characterized by an individual’s persistent engagement in activities or substances that have a powerful impact on their well-being and quality of life. In many cases, those who engage in addictive behaviors are unable to control or limit their participation in the activity or use of the substance. While the nature of addiction can vary greatly from person to person, a few common characteristics include compulsive use, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms. At a scientific level, addictive behavior involves the disregulation of the brain’s reward circuitry. This can be caused by a variety of factors. For example, drug use can trigger the release of euphoria-inducing neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin which can, in turn, begin to override and affect the brain's natural reward systems. At this level of disregulation, the body begins to rely on the substance or activity in order to appropriately respond to stress, fear, or other stimuli. Moreover, as the brain’s reward system is regularly overridden, individuals may become conditioned to seek out the substance or activity in order to simply feel normal. This can lead to the development of long-term patterns of addiction. Fortunately, a variety of treatments exists to address addictive behavior. Cognitive-behavioral therapy, 12-step programs, and medications can be used to help individuals address their reliance on the substance or activity. In many cases, individuals may also need to seek out professional help to successfully break the addiction cycle. Regardless of the nature of an individual’s addiction, it is important to understand that addiction is a potentially serious condition which can lead to physical and psychological complications. As such, seeking professional help is often the best starting point for those looking to effectively address their addictive behavior.