In discussions of popular psychology topics, there seems to be a general assumption that addictive personality and addictive behavior are interchangeable concepts. The inherent problem with this view is that most mental health professionals don’t believe in the myth of an addictive personality, at least not when it’s commonly seen as a moral failure. Some genetic and developmental factors can predispose the compulsive behaviors associated with chemical dependency, but they don’t add up to so-called addictive personalities. The reality of substance abuse and addiction is that we’re all vulnerable to falling into behavioral patterns that result in compulsion, without regard to personality type. Understanding Addictive Behvioar The basis of any compulsion is to reward and reinforce actions or stimuli despite negative consequences. Throwing caution to the wind is a common denominator among most addictions. The World Health Organization recognizes that constantly repeating rewarding behavior can become a clinical issue when it becomes obsessive and dismissive of negative effects. Ignoring Health Issues This is always a sign addictive behavior has strongly set in and may require therapeutic intervention. Excessive consumption of liquor, opioids, and methamphetamine can lead to dangerous conditions such as liver disease. Some addicts even stop taking vital prescriptions, such as insulin, antidepressants, and antipsychotics, because they irrationally think such medications can get in the way of their enjoyment. Binging on Weekends Anticipating the weekend because of the time it provides to overindulge or overdose is a hallmark of functional addictions. No one sets out to become dependent on a substance. When it happens to individuals who live structured lives, there’s a great risk that the situation will gradually get out of control after numerous binges. The main problem here is that tolerance develops to the point where it can mask negative health effects. Moreover, there’s also the danger of a weekend binge ending in a severe or even fatal overdose. Feeling Hypersexual The uninhibited feelings of euphoria many psychoactive substances cause often result in increased sex drive that can border on obsession. The combination of liquor and stimulants can make individuals feel hypersexual even though they aren’t that way when they’re sober. The problem with this behavior arises when addicts engage in unprotected sex with people they’re not familiar with or seek to exchange sex for substances, thus feeding more than one compulsion simultaneously. Replacing Other Activities This behavior is quite common among addicts, and they’re the last ones to notice it. Isolating from others who shun substance abuse is a clear sign psychological dependence has set in. Another sign is foregoing activities that either don’t involve substances or make it difficult to procure them. Since many psychoactive substances are taken recreationally, it’s not surprising to learn that getting drunk or high can replace other recreational activities, such as playing sports or getting together with loved ones.
Addiction impacts every facet of physical and mental health, and it’s a serious, complex issue that requires professional treatment. If you or someone you love is addicted to drugs or alcohol, seek help from a medical professional or another individual you trust to help you explore options for treatment and find support. For individuals who choose medical ibogaine treatments, Mexico and New Zealand are places where this type of treatment can be obtained legally.
