dEPRESSION, iS iT yOUR aDDICTION?

Addiction is usually thought of as involving alcohol or drugs; however, there are many behavioral addictions that are called process addictions. Some of these are: gambling, sex, work, and relationships. In addition, there are more subtle ones, i.e. depression.

Depression is the term given to a group of feelings and symptoms. There are multiple causes of depression but what is common to all is a combination of all or most of the following feelings: despair, sadness, anxiety, anger, self- pity, and hopelessness. These feelings can trigger many defensive behaviors: avoidance, isolation, dependence, and angry intimidating behavior, which may in turn intensify the previously mentioned feelings. Parents seeing these troubling behaviors attempt to support the child. The manner of support may actually reinforce the behavior. Depression results in attention and support. Repetition of this behavior support cycle may lead to being addicted to depression.