Process Addiction vs. Substance Use Disorder

This video describes the term “process addiction.” A process addiction (behavioral addiction) is when an individual demonstrates behavior consistent with addiction without a substance being involved. Common process addictions include shopping, gambling, Internet, and eating addictions. A process addiction can have similar effects on the brain as substances such as alcohol, heroin, cocaine, nicotine, and other drugs. The treatment for process addictions is sometimes similar to the treatment for substance use disorders. Process addictions can have a negative impact on relational, financial, mental health, physical health, and other aspects of an individual’s life.