Written by Glintcare Clinical Team
Our multidisciplinary clinical team develops and reviews educational mental health content to ensure accuracy, clarity, and alignment with current clinical practice.
Behavioural addictions, also known as process addictions, involve compulsive engagement in rewarding behaviours despite negative consequences. While the behaviour itself may be normal and healthy in moderation, it becomes addictive when it is pursued compulsively and begins to interfere with daily life.
Common Behavioural Addictions
Gambling Disorder: The only behavioural addiction formally recognised in the DSM-5
Gaming Disorder: Recognised by WHO, involves loss of control over gaming
Internet and Social Media Addiction: Compulsive use despite negative impact
Shopping Addiction: Compulsive buying, often driven by emotional needs
Sex and Pornography Addiction: Compulsive sexual behaviour
Exercise Addiction: Compulsive exercise beyond health goals
Work Addiction: Workaholism that damages health and relationships
Signs of a Behavioural Addiction
- Preoccupation with the behaviour - Loss of control over frequency or duration - Tolerance — needing more to feel the same effect - Withdrawal — irritability or distress when unable to engage - Negative consequences in relationships, work, or health - Using the behaviour to escape negative emotions - Failed attempts to cut back or stop
How Behavioural Addictions Work
Behavioural addictions activate the same dopamine pathways as substance addictions. The brain learns to associate the behaviour with pleasure, creating cravings and compulsive engagement. Over time, the behaviour shifts from being done for pleasure to being done to avoid discomfort.
Treatment Approaches
CBT: Identifies triggers and develops healthier coping strategies
Abstinence or Moderation: Depending on the behaviour and its impact
Support Groups: Gamblers Anonymous, SMART Recovery, and online communities
Family Therapy: Addresses enabling and relational patterns
Addressing Underlying Issues: Trauma, anxiety, depression often co-occur
At Glintcare
We treat behavioural addictions as seriously as substance addictions. Our therapists help you understand the underlying drivers and develop sustainable strategies for change.
