Strange Addictions

For most people, the word “addiction” triggers thoughts related to illicit drug abuse. The mere mention of the word often conjures images of the darkest stereotypes and depictions of addiction. Bit addiction spans beyond drugs, cigarettes, and alcohol. It is a disease that can negatively impact a person’s health, relationships, and socioeconomic status. …Read More Addiction is evolving and new forms are emerging every day. Some of these may seem strange and beyond reason, but studies show that a large number of people are developing addictions to things we use in everyday life. Sugar addiction has been making headlines with obvious negative side effects and numerous long-term health consequences. Selfie addiction may seem like a strange joke, but the phenomenon has highlighted psychological troubles many face. From body dysmorphic disorder to obsessive compulsive disorder, researchers have also found that selfie addiction is linked to narcissistic traits and technology addiction. In fact, several people’s addiction to selfies has led to tragic results with people willingly putting themselves in dangerous situations in order to capture that perfect selfie. Addiction can exhibit numerous symptoms. A person may build an increased tolerance to substances and need higher “doses” to achieve the same effects. They may also subsequently experience withdrawal symptoms, either physical or emotional, and can sometimes make it impossible to function normally. A person may lose control, neglect their personal responsibilities, and experience negative consequences across multiple aspects of life. Regardless of what drives a person’s addiction, cutting down on use or stopping altogether is nearly impossible, even with multiple attempts. A person does not need to be addicted to physical substances to experience these symptoms. Addiction to gambling, computers, video games, and other activities is a reality many face. Show Less.