Process Addiction: Is it Real or Fake?
When reflecting on the topic of addiction, most of us can think of at least one loved one, celebrity or public figure whose life has been decimated by the use of substances over time. However, the process of addiction is not only limited to substances and alcohol. In fact, many activities and behaviors we engage in throughout our lifetime have the potential to become addictive.
How many of us have found emotional relief through food, exercise, shopping, internet use, love/relationships, gaming, or sexual activity at some point in our lives? Each of the above are examples of common activities that can blossom into what we refer to as process addictions.
How can something so entertaining and fun become addictive? Rather than using a substance to induce a state of euphoria, the behavior itself provides the “high.” Ultimately these behaviors and activities become addictive when we repeatedly engage to achieve a desired effect (typically to numb, soothe or stimulate), despite negative consequences to ourselves and relationships.
To demonstrate, let’s take a look at the ways in which the process of sex addiction and substance/alcohol addictions overlap.
Impact of Addiction on the Brain
According to Dr. Patrick Carnes, founder of the International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals, chemical and process addictions impact the same areas of the brain. Specifically, all substances and addictive behaviors increase dopamine in the brain’s reward system. A study completed at the University of Cambridge in London found when men with compulsive sexual behavior were shown sexually explicit films (versus movies of sporting events), three specific areas of the brain were activated. These areas of the brain include the Ventral striatum, dorsal anterior cingulate cortex, and the amygdala, all of which are also activated in the brains of those struggling with drug addiction.
Withdrawal
As with substance/alcohol addiction, it is not easy to stop addictive behavior. Changes have occurred in the brain, making it difficult to escape the cycle independently and without maximum effort. The brain and body will experience physical and even emotional symptoms of withdrawal when an individual stops using a substance or behavior to achieve the desired “high.” For example, a cocaine user may experience both physical and emotional symptoms during withdrawal including anxiety, restlessness, irritability, and cardiac issues. Similarly, an individual addicted to sex and porn may experience a lot of the same feelings if they are unable to engage in sexual behavior. Whether you or a loved one struggle with an addiction, it is helpful to be aware of the withdrawal symptoms that occur.
Am I Struggling With a Process Addiction?
One of my favorite quotes about addiction comes from Anna Lembke, author of the book Dopamine Nation. She states: “We’re all running from pain. Some of us take pills. Some of us couch surf while binge-watching Netflix. Some of us read romance novels. We’ll do almost anything to distract ourselves from ourselves.”
The first step of learning to cope with negative emotion begins by reaching out to a licensed therapist who can screen for indicators of addiction. Your therapist may use a variety of screening tools to determine the impact of the addictive behavior. For example, when screening for sex addiction, your therapist may use the PATHOS tool to gather additional information which includes the following questions:
· Preoccupation: “Do you often find yourself preoccupied with sexual thoughts?”
· Ashamed: “Do you hide some of your sexual behavior from others?”
· Treatment: “Have you ever sought therapy for sexual behavior you did not like?”
· Hurt others: Has anyone been hurt emotionally because of your sexual behavior?”
· Out of Control: “Do you feel controlled by your sexual desire?”
· Sad: “When you have sex, do you feel depressed afterwards?”
A positive response to any one of these questions would indicate the need for further assessment by a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT). Addiction, whether process or substance related, has the potential to destroy relationships and the daily functioning of those involved. If you suspect that you or a loved one is struggling with a process addiction, there are many resources available to you including individual therapy with a licensed therapist, group therapy, and even 12-step recovery meetings. Our team of licensed therapists at The Haven are eager to support you on your journey toward ending the cycle of process addiction.
About the Author
Kenyah M. Smith is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist with experience in treating addiction and its impact on individuals and the couple system. Kenyah recognizes addiction itself as trauma and specializes in healing underlying wounds that fuel addictive processes and behaviors.