behavioral addictions

Behavioral addictions are patterns of compulsive engagement in rewarding activities—like gambling, gaming, or shopping—that become excessive and difficult to control, despite negative consequences. Unlike substance addictions, they involve behaviors rather than ingesting substances, but they can activate similar brain pathways associated with pleasure and reward. Over time, these behaviors can interfere with daily life, relationships, and work, driven by the brain’s craving for the associated reward. Recognizing behavioral addictions is important because they can be managed with therapy, support, and sometimes medication, helping individuals regain control and improve their well-being.