December 4, 2023 Author : Maria João Heitor, psychiatrist Addictive behaviors or addictions are the consumption of substances or the practice of actions, repeatedly and compulsively . They result in some immediate value or pleasure for those who practice them, but in the short or long term they can have serious consequences. Despite these effects, they tend to be maintained. Addictive behaviors or addictions can become chronic : They do not have a single cause, but it is known that they are related to chemical changes in the brain; They do not result from a lack of will or bad decisions; Some factors favor its occurrence, for example: Family history of addictions; Personal history of mental illnesses, for example depression, bipolar illness and others; Previous traumatic experiences, particularly during childhood; Ease of access, for example in the family or professional contexts. In practice, there is a lack of control over something that is consumed, used or done, to a level that it can be harmful. There is a common factor to addictions: immediate reward or gratification . This is what leads to behaviors becoming compulsive and repetitive, often with negative consequences, which are not understood by those who practice them, but only by others. The substances, legal or illegal, that may be related to addictions are very different . They have in common the potential for dependence, but they do not always give rise to addictions or result in serious consequences:. Alcohol; Nicotine (tobacco); Caffeine and other stimulating drinks; Medicines, for example analgesics, sedatives and anxiolytics (benzodiazepines), among others; Cannabinoids, cocaine, heroin, among many others. A behavior that is performed repeatedly, excessively and exhaustingly, and has negative consequences on daily life, relationships with others and physical and mental health can potentially be an addictive behavior . The most common are: Gaming, including video games, online or not; Eating behavior disorders; Sex; Shopping. The harmful consequences of addictive behaviors are of varying severity: For physical and mental health; For those who practice them and for their family, social and professional relationships; For academic or professional performance; In most cases, they result in great stress and suffering for everyone involved, and compromise quality of life. Identifying signs and seeking help is essential The following are signs that there may be an addictive behavior problem and it is necessary to seek professional help: Increased tolerance to the substance or behavior with the need for more to achieve the same pleasure; Inability to stop; Constant concern with the substance or activity; Trying to omit or lie about the subject, especially to those closest to you; Changes in habitual behavior associated with a lack of control over the situation; Inability to fulfill family, school or professional commitments and obligations; Physical and psychological symptoms when trying to stop the behavior (withdrawal symptoms). The addiction treatment process is usually long and is carried out by a psychiatrist and other mental health professionals . There is no treatment that works for all situations. Addiction treatment requires an individualized approach with various forms of intervention, including psychological, pharmacological and social. In many cases, rehabilitation involves lifelong monitoring by mental health professionals. As in other diseases, support groups, in which experiences are shared voluntarily, have proven to be a valuable resource in the rehabilitation of many addictive behaviors. The best-known case is alcoholism. Prevent addictive behaviors Avoid substances with the potential to cause addiction, know your family history of mental health and risk behaviors and manage stress in a healthy way - with physical exercise, socializing with friends and family, dedicating time to favorite hobbies and talking openly about problems or any other issues – help prevent addictive behaviors. Support from mental health professionals is also a prevention resource. Remember : Knowing the signs and recognizing that there is a possibility of an addictive behavior and seeking professional help, either yourself or someone close to you, is the step that can make a difference in solving a problem that may have serious consequences. Meet the psychiatry and psychology clinical teams from Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
