In our last blog post, we discussed the importance of staying aware of your surroundings and how an addiction replacement can so quickly creep in.
Just because your addiction is now shopping instead of alcohol or eating instead of smoking does not make it a healthy habit. So, you have to keep track of yourself and ensure that you are not just replacing one addiction with another.
Of course, like we mentioned in our last blog post, you are not doomed to a life of addiction, but some people are more prone to addiction as they naturally have an addictive personality. And, you can easily pick up another addiction without even noticing it. But, that is like taking one step back in the wrong direction instead of making progress.
And, aside from tracking anything you fear might be becoming an addiction, you should also be aware of what the most common addiction replacements are so you know the main things to be aware of:
Overworking
A study done in 1993 found that individuals who emerged from drug or alcohol rehab were more likely to spend more time working. While working is a positive thing, you need to know when to take a step back.
Overworking could cause you additional stress which could cause you to fall back into your previous drug or alcohol addiction.
Gambling
Gambling is another major addiction people face, and it can easily be substituted for a previous addiction. It is fun and gives people the same kind of rush that drugs or alcohol might give.
Intimacy
Believe it or not, some recovering addicts can turn to sex as their new addiction. While sexual intimacy is natural and part of a healthy relationship, it can also pose a threat to someone who is newly sober.
Sexual intimacy releases dopamine – the happy hormone – and can easily become just as addictive as drugs or alcohol. And, an addiction to sex can lead to promiscuity which can lead to an entirely new realm of things that could potentially be harmful to a recovering addict.
These three common addiction replacements are just a few. Other actions that pose a threat include smoking, overeating, and exercise.
Remember, too much of anything can be harmful. Yes, exercise is good, but even too much exercise could be a bad thing. And, just about anything can become an addiction – especially to someone who naturally has an addictive personality.