Treatment for behavioral addiction
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What is a behavioral addiction?
Behavioral, or process, addictions share similarities to addictions involving substances in which an individual excessively engages in a nondrug-related behavior, such as gambling, sex, gaming, internet use, and food, despite repeated adverse effects.
Statistics
Current research estimates that approximately 1% of the population in the U.S. has a gambling disorder, and another 2-3% may be at risk of developing a problem with gambling behavior.
Research is underway to determine the number of people affected by a gaming disorder, though it is estimated that the number of people affected increased considerably during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Estimates of the number of people in the U.S. affected by compulsive sexual behavior range from 3% to 6% of the population.
Frequently asked questions
Behavioral addictions affect similar areas of the brain as substance-related addictions, such as the reward area, and share similar symptoms. People with behavioral addictions may even experience withdrawal-like symptoms when stopping or attempting to make changes to their behavior.
Symptoms that may suggest the presence of a behavioral addiction include:
- Difficulty controlling the behavior
- Significant time thinking about, planning, or performing the behavior
- Strong urges or desire for the behavior
- Repeatedly performing the behavior when feeling distressed
- Jeopardizing relationships, job, or other opportunities for the behaviors
- Covering up or minimizing the extent of the behavior to others
- Development of withdrawal symptoms when the behavior is not possible (e.g., irritability, insomnia)
Symptoms may vary from person to person and a qualified medical professional can assist in diagnosing and discussing treatment options to address symptoms.
Treatment options
There are currently no FDA-approved medications for the treatment of behavioral addictions, though there are several different medication options that may be considered on an individual basis to support recovery.
Behavioral and cognitive-based therapies have evidence supporting their use to treat most behavioral addictions. In addition, identifying and treating previously unrecognized co-occurring mental health conditions can support recovery from behavioral addictions.
Making an appointment to speak with an addiction specialist to discuss your individual situation can help determine what treatment options are appropriate for you.
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