Unlike substance use disorders, which are easy for others to understand, process addictions tend to be more complicated. Instead of becoming addicted to drugs or alcohol, individuals become addicted to the feeling they experience when performing a certain behavior. In response, the brain releases a surge of feel-good chemicals, similar to a ‘high’ or rush.

When trying to determine whether an individual’s behavior is compulsive and could be considered a process addiction, mental health professionals look for many of the same signs that can be seen in those struggling with substance use disorders, such as:

• An overwhelming preoccupation with a behavior or activity
• Wanting to stop or cut back but not being able to despite repeated attempts
• Frequent cravings and the urge to engage in a particular behavior
• Sacrificing important relationships, opportunities or hobbies
• The inability to abstain from a behavior without discomfort or distress
• Using certain behaviors to cope with difficult thoughts or emotions
• Escalating frequency or intensity of a behavior over time
• Continuing to engage in an activity despite the consequences
• Feelings of guilt, shame or helplessness due to the behavior