Addiction is a complex condition involving physical and psychological dependence on a substance or activity. It is a progressive disease that often requires professional treatment and support to overcome.
There are two main types of addiction.
1) Behavioral addiction
Behavioral addiction refers to becoming addicted to a specific behavior or activity. The condition can include addictive behaviors like gambling, shopping, Internet use, and even exercise. While the exact cause of behavioral addiction is unknown, most people believe it could result from environmental and genetic factors.
Common types of behavioral addiction
There are many types of addictive behaviors. Some of them are,
- Gambling addiction
- Eating disorders (like compulsive overeating)
- Internet/social media/ video game addiction
- Excessive shopping
- Sex addiction
A common factor among these forms of addiction is the obsessive focus on a particular behavior. For example, an individual with a gambling addiction may neglect their work or family to gamble. In contrast, someone with a shopping addiction may spend so much money on clothes and accessories that they end up in debt.
2) Substance addiction
Substance addiction or substance use disorder is a pattern of addictive behavior characterized by compulsive use of a substance despite its negative consequences. Commonly abused substances include alcohol, tobacco, and stimulants. Substance use disorder can have a devastating effect on a person’s life.
Common types of substance addiction
There are different types of substance use disorders, and some of them are,
- Alcohol addiction
- Tobacco addiction
- Opioid addiction
- Stimulant addiction
- Prescription drug addiction
Most types of substance use disorder begin with the recreational use of a substance. For example, someone may start drinking alcohol socially to feel more relaxed and overcome stress. However, over time, the person may develop a tolerance to the substance and need to use more of it to achieve same level of effects. Such dependence eventually turns into an addiction.
Treatment for substance addiction
Treatment starts with detoxification, which is the process of removing the addictive substance from the body. Detoxification may involve one or more approaches, such as medication, acupuncture, and hypnosis.
The next step is rehabilitation. It is a process of helping the affected person recover from the physical and psychological effects of addiction. It is done through therapy, support groups, and other treatment modalities. The goal of the therapy is to assist the person in living a healthy, drug-free life.
Management of withdrawal symptoms
Withdrawal symptoms are a common occurrence during detoxification and rehabilitation. Some of them are,
- Anxiety, depression, and irritability
- Insomnia
- Excessive sweating
- Muscle aches and pains
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
The severity of these symptoms is determined by the type of substance abused and the duration of addiction. Generally, withdrawal symptoms peak within a few days and subside over weeks or months.
Get your personalized treatment plan from Vertical Treatment Centers in Greenville, SC.
Millions of men and women suffer from behavioral and substance addiction. If you or someone important to you is struggling with addiction, help is available. Vertical Treatment Centers offers personalized addiction treatment in Greenville, SC, to help you or your loved one overcome the disorder and live a healthy and drug-free life. Contact us today to learn more about our treatment services.