Process Addiction: Dependency
Process addiction refers to the compulsive engagement in specific behaviors that cause harm despite negative consequences.
What is Process Addiction?
In the context of alcohol and drugs, process addiction refers to the compulsive cycle of using substances despite the harmful effects on the body, mind, and relationships.
Understanding the Loop: This cycle functions much like a behavioral addiction, creating an automatic, compulsive drive to use substances despite awareness of the harm.
Signs & Symptoms
1
Compulsive Use
Consuming alcohol or drugs beyond intentions, often feeling unable to stop.
2
Tolerance & Withdrawal
Needing more to achieve effect and feeling physical distress when stopping.
3
Preoccupation
Obsessively thinking about the next use and making plans around it.
3. The Impact
Physical Health
Liver & Heart Damage
Mental Health
Cognitive Decline
Chronic use leads to anxiety, depression, and paranoia.
4. The Treatment
Detox
Medical Supervision
Therapy
CBT & MI
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy helps change harmful thought patterns.
Alcohol Addiction
Drugs Addiction
