Addiction is a word that often strikes fear into the lives of people who are impacted by it. We prefer to use words like "problem" or "issue." However, properly naming something is one of the first steps to coming up with a solution, right? We don't get medication from our health providers until they have properly identified the problem.
The first thing that you need to know about addiction is that there are two different types--chemical addictions and behavioral addictions.
Chemical Addiction
Chemical addiction involves introducing a substance to the brain and body. The introduction of that substance changes how our brains and bodies function. Chemical addiction includes being addicted to the following substances:
Alcohol
Marijuana
Heroin
Cocaine/Crack
Ecstasy
LSD
Methamphetamines
***This is not an exhaustive list of chemicals that can lead to addiction.
Behavioral Addiction
Although no substances are being "introduced" to the brain and body, behavioral addictions can be just as harmful. These addictions include:
Watching pornography
Engaging sex
Gambling
Video Gaming
Eating
Raging
Addiction is a disease that can be difficult to control and is prone to relapse. Please connect with a mental health provider and consult your primary care physician to get help treating addiction.
We are here to help at iHEAL. Our addiction specialists are trained to help you navigate substance use and abuse and problem behaviors. We offer addiction counseling services for individuals, families, and groups.
If you are specifically concerned about a gambling problem, you are eligible for free gambling counseling services at iHEAL. Check out our gambling services.
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