Many individuals these days refer to themselves as having an “addictive personality.” To put it another way, although the vast majority of people may enjoy a beer, buy a lottery ticket, or even experiment with drugs without developing an addiction, those born with a specific personality type are prone to do so.
The question you may be asking yourself is, “Do I have an addictive personality?” You may also have questions such as ‘Can you be addicted to a person?”. Well, the answers to the questions are not far-fetched, and a detailed explanation on whether you can be addicted to a person has been given in several authoritative pieces.
However, before really delving deep into the subject of discourse, it is important to examine what an addictive personality is and what having an addictive personality entails.
What is an Addictive Personality?
Addictive personality traits may increase a person’s risk of drug or alcohol addiction. Despite its widespread usage, the idea of an addictive personality is contentious, and there is a lack of reliable evidence to support its existence.
Several personality traits have been linked to various addictive behaviors. It’s vital to remember that there are many reasons why people get addicted. Factors that influence a person’s propensity to get addicted to drugs include genetics, upbringing, environment, social standing, and drug availability.
Many personality traits have been linked to addictive behavior in the past. It also gives techniques for avoiding dangerous activities.
Personality Characteristics Associated with Addictive Behavior
Even though the phrase has several meanings, it is often used to describe those who are more prone to addiction than others. According to the description, this personality type prioritizes repetitive pleasant occupations above other necessary activities.
According to a study, these behaviors are more addictive than other substances in the lives of individuals who engage in them.
While there is no clear agreement on what these characteristics are, they often include features such as:
- Impulsivity
- Insecurity
- Irritability
- Mood fluctuations are common.
- Not adhering to societal expectations
- Inadequate coping mechanisms
- Having low self-esteem
- Selfishness
- Isolation or disengagement from social situations
- Thrill-seeking or sensation-seeking are two different things.
Critics argue the term itself is damaging and should be avoided at all costs; besides being unsupported by research, the term promotes the perception that individuals who acquire addictions are all the same (contributing to the stigmatization and marginalization of those who suffer from addictions.)
Addiction Risk Factors That Have Been Identified
Researchers have discovered that although there is no evidence to support the existence of an addictive personality, there are several non-personality-related elements that might enhance the likelihood of developing an addiction. Some of them are as follows:
Genetic Factors
Several studies have shown that addictions have a substantial hereditary component to them.
Specific characteristics, such as impulsivity and a need for novelty, may be passed down through families, increasing the likelihood of developing an addiction. But just because you have those characteristics or have a family member who has struggled with addiction does not imply that you will suffer from one yourself.
Environmental Factors
Several environmental factors, such as poverty, drug availability, and trauma have been linked to an increased likelihood of addiction. Several lifestyle variables, such as participating in behaviors predisposing to addiction, may also enhance your chances of developing an addiction.
Mental Illnesses
It is also possible to raise your risk of addiction if you have another mental health condition such as depression, bipolar disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Addictive Behaviors vs. Addictive Personality
Rather than concentrating on personality qualities, it may be more useful to focus on actions. Certain habits or behaviors may be problematic for you if you are prone to addiction for any of the reasons listed above.
Comfort Food
Comfort eating is a typical approach to cope with disappointment, stress, or overload. While occasional comfort eating is harmless, it may lead to obesity, food addiction, and binge eating.
Drinking to Socialize
Socialization is one of the main reasons given by heavy drinkers. A beer or a glass of wine may seem like an easy way to relax and joke with friends. But drinking may quickly become the only way to get along with others, leaving you bored or worried when everyone is sober.
Hyperconnectedness
Checking your email or Facebook every hour or so, never leaving your phone alone, perusing the internet whenever you have time: These behaviors, although common nowadays, might lead to internet addiction. Cybersex, gambling, and shopping may develop into complicated addictions.
Sexing Out Intimacy
That sex might replace closeness may seem counterintuitive. A sexual addiction, on the other hand, might isolate you from your partners, as you immerse yourself in the sensations of the sexual encounter rather than being mindful of their sentiments.
Buying Happiness
Many factors contribute to overshopping. One of the primary reasons obsessive consumers rack up retail debt is the boost they receive from believing their new clothing, shoes, and gadgets would make them better people. But once yours, the items seem worthless.
Drug Self-Medication
Psychological disorders, including pain, trauma, and insomnia, are routinely treated with medicines. It doesn’t help that every one of these issues has at least one cure-all drug. Medication provides just brief alleviation. If you rely on them, you may develop a pharmaceutical addiction.
For instance, someone may try to relax or unwind by smoking marijuana; the issue is that marijuana has a rebound effect that increases anxiety. It may potentially cause major psychological issues or interfere with your motivation.
Seeking Help
Don’t put off dealing with your addictive behaviors. It’s a fallacy that you have to reach rock bottom before you can finally overcome your addiction. You may have a personality type that desires a lavish lifestyle, but it doesn’t have to be detrimental to your well-being. Call 844-268-8412 to consult with a member of the Covenant Hills Treatment team about obtaining the support you need in California so that you may begin living the life you want.
