Process addictions are often seen in people who are struggling with alcohol or drug addiction, but can occur independently as well. These addictions can cause great harm, but Cottonwood Tucson’s treatment team can help sufferers learn to lead healthy, fulfilling lives free from destructive coping mechanisms.
Process addictions can take a number of forms, but the most common are:
Process addictions can have a number of causes, but often begin as a response to trauma. For example, a childhood sexual assault survivor may turn to food for love and comfort. The victim of aggressive bullying may use video games to escape into a world where he is in total control. Financial difficulties, divorce, the death of a loved one, or the stress of living with a chronic illness may also trigger process addiction.
Although personality traits aren’t definitively correlated with addiction, there is some research that suggests people who are described as impulsive, sensation seeking, socially isolated, and non-conforming are more likely to turn to addictions to cope with unpleasant emotions.
Since addictions to processes and addictions to drugs and alcohol both start with chemical changes inside the brain, treatment for both conditions is quite similar. Group and individual therapy will focus on helping you to control compulsive thoughts while developing healthy coping mechanisms so you no longer feel the need to rely on a process addiction. Contact us today to learn more about our personalized inpatient holistic behavioral health treatment options.
