Signs and Symptoms

Let’s face it; when we imagine images of addiction, the stereotypical figure beneath a bridge or the person begging at a traffic light often comes to mind. However, the shocking truth is that addiction is far more pervasive in our society and closer to our homes than we might care to admit.

At its core, addiction is defined as obsessive and compulsive engagement with a substance or behavior, even in the face of negative consequences. What makes it even more insidious are the destructive self-medicating behaviors we turn to in an attempt to relieve stress, anxiety, depression, boredom, or other negative emotions.

Let’s shed some light on this pervasive issue. Here are some examples of addictive substances and behaviors that might be closer to home than you think:

Substances:

1. Alcohol: Yes, even the seemingly harmless social drink.
2. THC (Weed, Marijuana): Often hailed as a wonder drug, but it comes with its own set of risks.
3. “Recreational” Drugs: From cocaine to ecstasy, MDMA, khat, crystal meth, and more.
4. Prescription Medication: Abused or not used as prescribed, medications for sleep, anxiety, pain, ADHD, and more.

Behaviors:

1. Viewing of Pornography: A common yet damaging habit with far-reaching consequences.
2. Masturbation: A behavior that can turn into a compulsive habit.
3. Risky Sexual Behaviors: Celebrated in media, but with potential negative consequences.
4. Obsessive Gaming: Escaping reality through virtual worlds.
5. Gambling: An often overlooked but highly addictive behavior.
6. Binge Eating and Purging: A destructive relationship with food.
7. Endless Scrolling on Social Media: A modern addiction affecting mental well-being.
8. Extreme Performance – Sporting or Academic: Pushing the limits at the cost of health.

If any of these substances or behaviors become the default solution to a real or perceived problem, the addiction cycle might already be present.

So, what are the drivers of addiction? A significant contributor is the media we consume. Social media normalizes hypersexual content, movies and series celebrate risky behaviors, drug use, and alcohol as a coping mechanism, while music lyrics and videos often glorify sex, money, and violence.

In this toxic cultural environment, it’s no wonder that our society, shaped by accepted practices within a group of people, is grappling with a sickness.

Among the prevalent issues faced by adults or parents, alcohol abuse takes center stage – from binge drinking on weekends to daily consumption, with some admitting an inability to stop once they start or stay sober once they stop. The cycle of “I’m never drinking again” only to resume on the next Friday is all too familiar.

Another damaging issue is pornography use, which destroys our understanding of healthy sexuality, overstimulates our brains and bodies, and leads to a range of mental and physical health issues.

Then there’s THC, often hailed as a natural, legal wonder drug. However, it is one of the most dangerous chemicals when it comes to drug-induced psychosis. Users face a 90% increased risk of experiencing schizophrenic episodes.

It’s disheartening that addiction has become so ingrained in our culture that we often fail to recognize it – the uncle who drinks too much at every gathering, the husband who indulges in shared explicit content on a “boys” WhatsApp group, or the mom who reaches for a glass of wine at every opportunity.

What’s even more concerning is that our children observe and mimic our behaviors. If we turn to substances for relief, we inadvertently teach them to do the same.

But it’s not all gloom and doom. There are healthy communities that engage in life-giving practices, fostering vibrant social interactions and promoting healthy pastime activities. The key is to become part of these communities.

If you find yourself struggling, there’s no shame in reaching out for help. Thriving recovery communities consider it a privilege to focus on self-development, growth, and being part of a group of like-minded individuals. Breaking the silence and seeking support is not a sign of weakness but a courageous step towards a healthier, addiction-free life.

Get help.