What is Cross Addiction & How You Can Avoid Them

Overcoming addiction is a formidable journey. Transitioning away from substance reliance, whether it’s alcohol or drugs used as coping mechanisms, often leads to the emergence of new dependencies. For instance, a former alcoholic might start overeating, a meth user might turn to alcohol, or a heroin addict might develop a dependence on benzodiazepines. This phenomenon, known as cross addiction, presents a significant challenge for both the individual and their loved ones.

What is Cross Addiction?

Cross addiction, also known as substitute addiction or addiction transfer, occurs when a new addiction replaces an old one. The core issues, such as trauma or other unresolved psychological problems, often remain unaddressed, leading the person to seek a new addiction to fill the void left by the original one.

Causes of Cross Addictions

Various factors contribute to the development of cross addictions. Inadequate or insufficient treatment for the initial addiction can leave underlying causes unaddressed. Even after avoiding old triggers and environments, the residual stress, anxiety, and cravings can drive an individual to find a new way to cope. The substitute addiction often provides a similar sense of relief and pleasure, perpetuating a new cycle of dependency.

Common Cross Addictions and Prevention Strategies

#1 – Food

While gaining weight can be beneficial for those previously neglecting their nutrition, it’s crucial to focus on healthy eating. Sugary, salty, and fatty foods can mimic the dopamine rush once provided by drugs or alcohol, leading to compulsive eating.

Prevention

Don’t try to fill the void with food. Continue with therapies like CBT Therapy or DBT Therapy to address the root causes of your addiction and ensure your diet is rich in nutritious foods rather than unhealthy snacks.

#2 – Sex

In early recovery, developing unhealthy emotional attachments or seeking physical release can become compulsive behaviors. Although natural, these can spiral into problematic patterns.

Prevention

Examine your relationship patterns for triggers and unhealthy behaviors. Focus on building positive, non-romantic relationships. Many recovery programs recommend avoiding new sexual relationships during the first year of sobriety, a practice that can be beneficial for maintaining focus on recovery.

#3 – Shopping

Compulsive shopping is characterized by buying unnecessary items, often leading to financial strain. The rush from making purchases can be addictive and detrimental.

Prevention

Limit access to funds by not carrying excessive money and handing over credit cards to a trusted person.

#4 – Gambling

Gambling addiction includes casino visits to endless online gaming. It’s often an escape from life’s stresses, providing a thrill that can be financially ruinous.

Prevention

Seek support through groups like Gamblers Anonymous or addiction treatment centers that offer specialized programs. Implement self-exclusion practices and avoid environments associated with gambling.

Recognizing and Addressing Cross Addictions

Identifying a cross addiction can be challenging. Friends don’t usually understand the risks that come with it. For instance, they may not understand why a recovering alcoholic shouldn’t overeat or why a former heroin addict should avoid alcohol. The unresolved issues at the core of the original addiction remain problematic and can lead to new dependencies.

Action Steps

It’s vital to recognize these patterns early. Use the knowledge and coping skills gained from previous treatments to address new addictions. You can also take a look at the several therapy options available like CBT therapy, depression therapy, anxiety therapy, DBT therapy, EMDR therapy, etc. These therapies can help address the underlying causes and support long-term recovery.

Conclusion

Cross addictions are a common but manageable aspect of the recovery journey. By understanding the nature of substitute addictions and implementing strategies to prevent them, individuals can continue to build healthier, addiction-free lives.

However, if you are looking for a good way to address and handle these underlying issues, speaking to a therapist or expert at Archway Behavioural Health Center can help you out. Located at Boca Raton, Florida, the behavioral health center offers you a safe space for healing, growth, mental peace and balance. Call us at (888) 488-4103. 

FAQs About Cross Addiction & Avoiding It

Why does cross addiction happen?

The brain’s reward system, damaged by the initial addiction, seeks similar pleasurable effects. This can lead someone to substitute one addictive substance for another.

What are some examples of cross addiction?

Someone who overcomes alcoholism might turn to prescription pain medication, or a former cocaine user might struggle with gambling addiction.

What addiction treatment services does Archway offer?

Archway Behavioral Health might offer various addiction treatments programs, including individual and group therapy, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), detox programs, relapse prevention planning, and aftercare support.

What types of addictions does Archway treat?

They likely treat a range of addictions, including alcohol dependence, opioid addiction, cocaine and stimulant addictions, methamphetamine addiction, and benzodiazepine dependence.