Compulsive Behaviors
What is compulsive behavior?
According to the US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health, compulsive behavior consists of repetitive acts that are characterized by the feeling that one ‘has to’ perform them while one is aware that these acts are not in line with one’s overall goal. Compulsive behavior is a habit that people do too much of it consistently and they can’t stop it.
What is an example of compulsive behavior?
Here are some examples of compulsive behaviors:
- Repetitive double-checking of locks
- Loss of control with excessive shopping, cleaning, washing, skin picking, hair pulling, nail-biting, eating, counting, and checking in on loved ones
- Repetitively engage in arranging of things
What is the difference between compulsive behavior and addiction?
Compulsive behavior is when a person excessively repeats a behavior and feels unable to control these unwanted behavior. It is an urge to do something to relieve their anxiety or fear.
Addiction is a process in which a person becomes dependent on a substance or behavior to experience pleasure. A person with addiction persists to act on these activities even though it is harmful to themselves and their loved ones.
Addictive and compulsive behaviors can wreak havoc in your life. This disease can involve many different substances and behaviors including drug/alcohol use, sex & porn addiction, compulsive eating, and many others.
How do you stop compulsive behavior?
Start by admitting you need help and learn to understand why you may struggle with compulsive behaviors and addictive behaviors. Knowing why there is a constant relapse is a very important step. This often helps to create the foundation in which successful treatment and recovery.
Here are a few types of addiction therapy can help with*
*The addictions listed below are not a limited list.
Substance Addiction
If you are currently in recovery from alcohol or drug addiction, individual therapy can often help to solidify your recovery and heal past wounds of trauma that can possibly be the root cause of your struggle with addiction.
Even if you have never been to rehab, AA meetings or any type of support group, individual counseling can have a big and positive effect on your recovery. We will work on a plan based on you and the individual needs that will give you the tools and support for success.
Sex & Pornography Addiction
One of our specialties is working with men who struggle with addictive and compulsive sexual behaviors, including pornography. More men and women are affected by this type of addiction than ever before. The accessibility of pornography on the internet and lack of healthy decisions has a negative and destructive effect on the relationships in their lives.
In addition, our teens and tweens have been impacted due to the non-filtered internet access. As parents, we should be closely monitoring their time and access to the internet and what sites adolescents are able to view.
Through individual, group, and marital counseling, you and your spouse can find healing for this destructive addiction.
Give us a call today to find out how we can help you overcome addictions in your life.