Compulsive Behaviors

Regardless of what you want to call it, a “bad habit,” compulsion, or addiction…. some people feel compelled to repeat pleasurable behaviors to the point that they do damage to themselves, and often, others in the process. For someone who is struggling, the urge to engage in a specific behavior feels irresistible and uncontrollable.

How can you tell the difference between a harmless bit of fun and an addiction or compulsion? The short answer has to do with whether or not negative consequences exist, and to what degree those negative consequences have interfered with healthy and balanced living. If one’s finances, family relationships, job, and other important areas of life are compromised then, it is likely that professional help is appropriate.

Common Addictive and Compulsive Behaviors We Treat:

• Gambling
• Shopping
• Internet pornography
• Video gaming
• Overeating
• Internet role playing games/chatting
• Relationship dependency
• Compulsive participation in a hobby
• Compulsive sexual behavior
• Excessive devotion to work
• Compulsive involvement in sports or fantasy sports

If you are reading this it is likely you fall into one of three groups:
-    you have been told you have an addiction or compulsion but you disagree
-    you are concerned that you may have an addiction and you are looking for help
-    you are reading this for a loved one who does not believe a problem exists.

If you are in the first category, most likely the idea of talking to a professional won’t make sense to you. We simply encourage you to pay attention and be honest with yourself about the possibility you may be experiencing increasing negative consequences from your behavior. Your friends or family may see something you don’t yet.

If you are in the second category, we recommend you schedule an evaluation to help determine how serious your situation is and what level of treatment would be recommended. We are equipped to help you evaluate your situation and options.

If you are in the third category, we strongly encourage you to meet with a counselor to see what options are available to you to help your loved one. This is a very difficult role to be in but your choices may prove life-saving to the one experiencing the problem, and a tremendous benefit to other family members.

Also See:
Alcohol/Drug Assessment
Anorexia/Bulimia
Compulsive Sexual Behavior
Overeating/Weight Loss
Painkiller Abuse