An addictive personality is a set of traits that make one vulnerable to addiction. While these traits can be recognized in people who are addicted. However, not everyone who has these traits becomes an addict to a substance or behavior.
Addiction is repeated use of activities that give you pleasure in order to escape stress or make money. What are the traits of an addictive personality? Do you have one? Discover the answers to your questions with our easy-to-understand guide.
Impulse Behavior
This is when a person acts with little or no consideration of the consequences of their behavior. These traits can be simple things such as drinking up till late when you know you have an early meeting. You believe in instant gratification rather than holding off and viewing the situation from a rational perspective.
If you have this trait, try slowing things down till the excitement dies down. 1st Step Behavioral Health rehab will help you take the steps needed to achieve a lasting change.
Mental Disorders
People who have mental disorders are likely to abuse and become dependent on substances. For example, people with schizophrenia tend to smoke more nicotine as a temporary way of reducing the symptoms.
However, not all people with mental illnesses have become addicted. This is just a guide for potential traits of an addictive personality.
Self-Esteem Issues
People who suffer from low self-esteem may indulge too much in an attempt to numb their feelings. They undergo some level of stress because of feelings of being isolated. This stress may change brain activity.
They may drink too much or take drugs in an attempt to reward themselves or boost their self-worth. These people tend to take drugs to improve socialization skills and feeling accepted.
The thrill of a new addiction provides a new high and their brain chemistry gets worse.
Adventurous Behavior
These are people who are constantly seeking a new thrill just for the adrenalin rush. This personality trait makes a person vulnerable to trying out new drugs. This is because they are open-minded and desire to experiment.
People with this trait enjoy the release neurotransmitters which are also produced when taking drugs and alcohol.
Weak Commitments to Personal Values and Goals
How you react to an impulse behavior shows your overall commitment to personal goals and values. If you have a weak commitment, you keep on jumping from one passion to another as you chase a new concept.
This personality trait is vulnerable to addictions as they cannot keep a commitment to stay out of drugs. If you have this personality trait, try shifting your point of view from short term to long term.
Traits of an Addictive Personality That May Lead to Addictions
Interpretations of some traits of an addictive personality are dependent on experiences and the response of friends and family on our behaviors. It seems that the idea of an addictive personality isn’t a universal character trait that is common to all.
However, it’s easy to identify these traits in children who tend to develop addictions. The presence of these traits makes it easier to spot who is vulnerable to addiction. If you see the above traits in a loved one, be aware of the situations that cause it and try to prevent that addiction as early as possible.
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