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When most people think of the word “addiction” the first thing that probably comes to mind is substance abuse. This type of addiction is incredibly prevalent. The opioid epidemic sheds a light on just how serious that problem is; thousands of people have lost their lives from drug abuse in the last few years. But did you know there are other addictions as well? Things that people commonly struggle to overcome?
Here are the main addictions you need to watch for in today’s highly evolved society.
Alcohol and Drugs
The number one addiction is drugs and alcohol. These addictions can be made worse by the problems going on in society today, especially in large areas such as LA. If you or someone you know is having problems with drug and alcohol abuse in today’s trying times, it’s important to check into the outpatient treatment options in LA right away.
There are plenty of groups that can help you or your loved one work out your issues and overcome your addiction.
The Internet and Modern Technology
Nomophobia, a word no one has even heard of until recently is defined as the attachment that the modern world has to their smartphone devices. You would be hard-pressed to go anywhere today without seeing the majority of the customers on their phones. People eat, work, play, and even sleep with their phones by their sides, so they can be checked on a moment’s notice.
The internet can also become an addiction and affects teens and young adults much more than it does older people. Having to do without a smartphone or internet access can easily lead to depression and feelings of anxiety until the web service is restored.
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Video Games
Video game addiction is much more real than many people want to admit. Online gaming and virtual worlds have caused a huge upsurge in gaming addictions also.
Video game playing is considered by doctors to be an addictive behavior. Gaming is similar to gambling, which is known to be a very real addiction. It is similar to because it raises your dopamine levels and has a strong psychological component.
Food
Food can affect your brain chemistry in much the same way that drugs can. Most types of eating disorders come from psychological and emotional issues.
Food addiction becomes a way to cope and offers comfort, and an escape from the things that are bothering you. For example, regularly giving in to the need to eat junk can be a way to cope with emotional trauma among other problems. If you feel that you have an addiction to eating, get help somewhere, as it can become serious.
Gambling
Gambling has been a problem for ages, but it has become more prevalent in today’s modern world because so many people have access. The excitement of winning has caused addicts to lose their entire paychecks to a gambling site, even when they have mouths to feed at home and rent to pay.
Work
While work is certainly a good thing, it can become an addiction for many people. Workaholism is a serious condition and takes over a person’s life.
Overworking cannot only have serious consequences for your health but can negatively impact your relationships as well. It’s quite easy to justify being a workaholic because it’s something everyone needs to do to pay bills and enjoy the life they want to live.
These are just a few of the most common addictions in today’s society. If you feel you have any of the habits above, slow down, take a breath, and get the help you need right away.