- Behavioral addictions involve compulsive engagement in behaviors that provide temporary relief, stimulation, or regulation, despite negative consequences over time.
- At THE BALANCE, behavioral addictions are understood as patterns of coping linked to stress, trauma, emotional regulation, and nervous system dysregulation, rather than as problems of impulse control alone.
- Behavioral addictions often function to regulate internal states.
behavioral addictions involve compulsive engagement in behaviors that provide temporary relief, stimulation, or regulation, despite negative consequences over time.
At THE BALANCE, behavioral addictions are understood as patterns of coping linked to stress, trauma, emotional regulation, and nervous system dysregulation, rather than as problems of impulse control alone.
UNDERSTANDING BehaviorAL ADDICTIONS
behavioral addictions may involve activities such as:
- gambling
- compulsive digital or online behaviors
- work-related compulsions
- shopping or spending behaviors
- sexual or relational compulsions
These behaviors may initially serve adaptive functions, such as managing stress or emotional discomfort.
HOW behaviorAL ADDICTIONS MAY PRESENT
Individuals may experience:
- increasing preoccupation with the behavior
- loss of control or inability to stop
- emotional relief followed by guilt or distress
- escalation in frequency or intensity
- disruption to relationships, work, or daily life
- difficulty tolerating distress without the behavior
Patterns often intensify during periods of stress or emotional strain.
behaviorAL ADDICTIONS IN COMPLEX PRESENTATIONS
At THE BALANCE, behavioral addictions are frequently seen alongside:
- anxiety or depressive symptoms
- trauma or unresolved emotional experiences
- burnout or chronic stress
- substance-related difficulties
- relational or attachment challenges
The behavior is approached as part of a broader clinical picture.
A REGULATION-FOCUSED & TRAUMA-INFORMED APPROACH
behavioral addictions often function to regulate internal states. Care therefore focuses on:
- understanding the role the behavior plays
- increasing tolerance for emotional experience
- supporting nervous system regulation
- developing alternative coping strategies
Change is paced to avoid destabilisation.
HOW behaviorAL ADDICTIONS ARE APPROACHED AT THE BALANCE
Care is:
- assessment-led and individualized
- multidisciplinary and coordinated
- trauma-informed across all disciplines
- attentive to psychological, physiological, and relational dynamics
Treatment may include psychotherapy, psychiatric care where appropriate, neurobiological and somatic approaches, and structured recovery environments – integrated within a cohesive plan.
THE ROLE OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM
Compulsive behaviors often regulate stress or emotional discomfort. This may involve:
- distraction from internal distress
- stimulation to counter numbness
- temporary sense of control or relief
Supporting nervous system balance reduces reliance on behavioral coping patterns.
RESIDENTIAL & OUTPATIENT CONTEXTS
Depending on severity and functional impact, care may be provided within:
- Individualized Residential Care
- Small-Group Residential Care
- Outpatient & Continuity of Care
The level of care is guided by assessment and readiness.
IMPORTANT NOTE ON RECOVERY
Recovery from behavioral addictions is not defined by suppression alone. Progress may include:
- increased emotional regulation
- reduced compulsive urges
- improved self-awareness
- healthier coping strategies
- restored balance in daily life
Care focuses on sustainable change rather than rigid control.
NEXT STEPS
If compulsive behaviors are affecting your well-being or functioning, our admissions team can provide confidential guidance and help determine appropriate next steps.
