A GUIDE TO UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF ADDICTION

Addiction is often thought of within the context of substance use. However, there is another category of addiction called behavioral addictions. Examples are gambling, sex and porn addiction, workaholism, and gaming. Behavioral addictions have all the hallmarks of a substance addiction. For example, continuing to engage in behavior despite negative consequences and experiencing intense urges or cravings.  Additionally, there tends to be a lot of overlap in addiction and addictive behaviors, also called addiction interactions. An example of this might be having periods of time when you feel out of control with your sexual behavior, but upon cutting back you find that your alcohol use is unmanageable. Just when you think you have a handle on one behavior, another unravels. Does this sound familiar? Hayley Leishman, LCSW, TRS, CSAT, CMAT has the specialized training and experience to help you finally get your life back. 

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Man walking alone on a stormy beach. The image is used to convey the isolation associated with compulsive sexual behavior.

Sex Addiction

Dealing with sex addiction is a painful and often isolating struggle, marked by a cycle of shame, compulsive behavior, and fleeting relief followed by deep regret. The addiction can create a sense of losing control over one’s actions, leading to broken relationships, diminished self-worth, and a constant internal battle between desire and self-destruction. While the addiction may temporarily numb emotional pain or provide escape, it only deepens the underlying issues, such as unresolved trauma, anxiety, or emotional disconnection. Recovery requires a multi-faceted approach, including therapy to address the root causes (trauma), behavioral change strategies, and rebuilding trust with oneself and others. With the right support and commitment, it is possible to break free from the cycle and heal. Learn more…

Love Addiction

The love addiction cycle involves intense highs and lows in relationships, where an individual becomes dependent on the emotional rush of love to feel valued. It often starts with an idealized phase, followed by anxiety, insecurity, and emotional instability as the relationship faces challenges. This cycle can create dependency, where self-worth is tied to another person’s approval. Healing requires breaking the cycle by building self-awareness, emotional resilience, and a healthier sense of self outside of romantic validation. Learn more…

Woman alone on floor with her knees pulled to her head, holding a rose. Image evokes the shame and heartbreak of failed relationships at the heart of love addiction.
Silhouette of a man with his head in hands. The image evokes the sense of shame associated with pornography addiction.

Pornography Addiction

Dealing with pornography addiction can be a deeply isolating and shame-filled struggle, where the compulsion to use it often masks deeper emotional pain or unmet needs. Over time, the addiction can take a toll on relationships, self-esteem, and mental health, creating a cycle that feels impossible to break. Breaking free requires acknowledging the underlying triggers, confronting the shame, and committing to healthier coping strategies. Therapy, support groups, and developing new habits can help regain control, while self-compassion and patience are key in rebuilding trust with oneself and others. With time, consistency, and the right tools, freedom from the addiction is possible. Learn more…

Other Behavioral Addictions

Behavioral addictions, such as gambling, gaming, social media, shopping, or compulsive eating, are characterized by an overwhelming compulsion to engage in certain behaviors despite negative consequences. From a neurobiological perspective, these addictions are similar to substance addictions because they involve similar brain structures, neurotransmitters, and circuits. Stress can play an important role in the development of behavioral addictions, where the addictive behavior becomes the primary coping strategy. Additionally, deeper unmet emotional needs may be driving the behavior and therapy can help identify and address those needs. Learn more…

Woman on her phone with stressed facial expression. Phone addiction is an example of a behavioral addiction.
Silhouette of two hands outside at sunrise holding a cutout of the word HOPE. Image evokes the sense of hope as one emerges from the darkness of addiction.

Substance Use

Therapy for substance use focuses on addressing both the root causes of addiction and the behavioral patterns that sustain it. It often involves exploring underlying emotional issues such as trauma, anxiety, or depression that may drive the need for substance use as a coping mechanism. Additionally, therapy provides a space for rebuilding self-esteem, repairing relationships, and creating a strong foundation for long-term recovery. With consistent support, individuals can reclaim control over their lives, break free from the cycle of substance use, and cultivate emotional resilience for sustained healing. Learn more…

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