Masters of Health Magazine July 2020 | Page 54

partake in an activity, and they become dependent on it to cope with daily life.

Every year, addiction to alcohol, tobacco, illicit drugs, and prescription opioids costs the U.S. economy upward of $740 billion in treatment costs, lost work, and the effects of crime.

Most people start using a drug or first engage in an activity voluntarily. However, addiction can take over and reduce self-control.

The Following Are the Most Common Types of Addictions:

· Alcohol

· Coffee

·Drugs (over-the-counter, prescription, illegal)

·Food

·Gambling

·Internet/Social Media/Cell Phone

·Love*

·Rage*

·Sex/Pornography

·Shopping

·Tobacco/Nicotine

·Video games

·Work

Let’s take a moment to discuss two of the less known addictions listed above: love and rage addictions.

Love chemicals can become addictive. According to research, attraction reduces the hormone serotonin, which is involved in appetite and mood. It’s interesting to note that obsessive-compulsive disorder is linked to low serotonin levels which may explain why those newly in love can become overwhelmed with feelings of obsession for the love object.

And, as for the little-known rage addiction.

You or someone you know may be addicted to rage, if the following signs are present:

· Verbal, Physical, Or Emotional Abuse Towards Others

· Excessive Cursing

· Name Calling

· Threatening Behavior

· Pointing and Yelling

· Sarcasm, Even When It Is Uncalled For

· Throwing Objects at Others

· Experiencing Temper Tantrums

· Bragging About Power and Control

· Criticizing and Degrading Others with Blunt, Aggressive Comments

· Road Rage

· Mixing Anger with Substance Abuse

· Unpredictable Behavior

· Denying Anger Outbursts

· Fantasies of Revenge

https://perspectivesoftroy.com/can-you-be-addicted-to-rage/

In the same way that substances trigger brain chemical rushes, so too does the expression and expulsion of anger. Like any addiction, anger can induce discharge of dopamine, epinephrine and norepinephrine— also referred to as adrenaline and noradrenaline.

The Following are the Physical Signs of Addiction:

·Lack of concern over physical appearance/personal hygiene

·Disrupted sleep patterns, including insomnia

·Over-active or under-active (depending on the drug)

·Repetitive speech patterns

·Dilated pupils, red eyes

·Excessive sniffing and runny nose (not attributable to a cold)

·Looking pale or undernourished

·Clothes do not fit the same

·Weight loss

·Change in eating habits

·Unusual odors or body odor due to lack of personal hygiene

https://www.priorygroup.com/addiction-treatment/signs-and-symptoms-of-addiction