Process addictions, also known as behavioral addictions, are common among teens. While many people think about using drugs or alcohol when they hear the word “addiction,” the reality is that there are many kinds of addictions. Teens may become addicted to specific behaviors, and many of them require professional treatment to live a regular, healthy life.
There is a wide range of common forms of process addictions teens face. Here is more information on each one.
Internet Addiction
An internet addiction happens when a teen becomes overly attached to checking the internet, interacting online, or using the computer. Some signs of internet addiction include isolating themselves from their family and friends, experiencing euphoria with internet usage, or losing track of time while using the internet.
Gambling Addiction
Another form of addiction that teens may get into is gambling. Teens may lose their ability to stop spending their money or control their playing habits, leading to addiction and debt.
For teens who do experience gambling addiction, it’s almost impossible to walk away, even if they are losing a game. They enjoy the rush of gambling and may rely on loans from family or friends to have the money needed to make bets.
Their focus on winning big will be at the forefront, and they will continue to play even when their losses add up. Some with this addiction may say that they’re okay and just trying to hit it big, but the reality is that they may continue to lose, could max out their credit cards, and end up in significant debt.
Sex Addiction
The third kind of addiction that teens may develop is sex addiction. It’s normal for teens to want to explore their sexuality and experiment, but sex addiction takes it to another level. A sex addiction includes compulsive behaviors and a loss of control. A teen might spend so much time focused on sex or sexual activities that they neglect their familial responsibilities, schooling, or friends.
Some common signs of sex addiction include obsessing over thoughts of sex to the point that they disrupt the teen’s schooling, work, or home life. The inability to refrain from engaging in sex or sexual behaviors and an inability to stop or postpone watching pornography may also be signs of this addiction.
Gaming Addiction
Many teens start gaming with friends or family members. Some may get so involved in their games that they ignore their other responsibilities, lose track of time or develop defensive behaviors. Many teens use gaming as a way to escape from the stresses in their lives, but those who cannot step away from using their games may need to have treatment.
Shopping Addiction
Finally, shopping addiction may strike in the teen years. This is because many teens are so focused on how they look and how they present themselves to others. Shopping addiction is also known as oniomania and tends to be among the most common. An addiction to shopping becomes an issue when it is excessive, affects the person’s finances, and impairs how they function within their relationships.
Contact Foothills at Red Oak Recovery Today
Teens can develop all kinds of process addictions, but there is help available that can assist them in getting back on track. Whether they are too focused on video gaming, web browsing, texting, using a smartphone, chatting on social media, or with other addictions, our team is here to help. Call us today at Foothills at Red Oak Recovery at 866.300.5275. We would be happy to talk to you more about how you can address a process addiction in its early stages.
