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Most people understand addiction when it comes to dependence on substances, such as alcohol, nicotine, illicit drugs, or even prescription medications, but have a hard time with the concept of addictive behaviors. Behavioral addictions (also known as process addictions) follow the same pattern as substance-based addictions, creating problems in many areas of a person’s life. They … Read more

Addiction is a complex, chronic brain condition influenced by genes and the environment that is characterized by substance use or compulsive actions that continue despite harmful consequences.1 For a long time, addiction meant an uncontrollable habit of using alcohol or other drugs. More recently, the concept of addiction has expanded to include behaviors, such as gambling, as well as … Read more

Pyromania is a serious mental health condition characterized by intentionally and repetitively setting fires—and doing so compulsively. People with pyromania feel unable to stop the behavior. Setting a fire releases inner tension or anxiety and gives the person a rush of pleasure or relief.1 At a Glance Pyromania is an impulse control disorder. It isn’t … Read more

What is the most important information I should know about drug rebound? The after-effects of prescription drugs and other substances can sometimes play a role in their misuse and contribute to the risk of addiction. Understanding these effects and knowing how to cope can help if you are struggling with misuse, withdrawal, or addiction. The … Read more

Masturbation addiction refers to excessive or compulsive masturbation. While it’s not a diagnosable mental health condition,1 it can have a significant impact on daily functioning for those whose sexual behavior is out of control. Masturbation itself is not a harmful activity and may be enjoyed by those in a relationship or those using it to compensate … Read more

When it comes to facilitating behavioral changes, counselors, social workers, health care workers, and other similar professionals often use motivational interviewing. Through this evidence-based approach, skilled practitioners are able to empower people to make changes while honoring and respecting their autonomy.1 One of the major tenets of this approach is that it requires the clinician to … Read more

At a Glance A person with voyeuristic disorder gets sexually aroused by watching people who don’t know they’re being watched engage in sexual acts. Voyeuristic disorder is part of a group of mental health conditions called paraphilic disorders. A person with voyeuristic disorder gets sexually aroused by observing someone in a sexual act who does not realize … Read more

People might suck or chew on ice on a hot summer day or after finishing a drink. But what does it mean if you constantly crave ice? While it depends on the circumstances, frequency, and intensity of the craving, a compelling urge to chew ice could mean that you have a physical or mental health condition. … Read more

What should I know about Seroquel withdrawal symptoms? Abruptly discontinuing Seroquel can result in withdrawal symptoms including dizziness, increased heart rate, insomnia, nausea, and vomiting. Never stop taking your medication without talking to your doctor first; your doctor may advise gradually tapering your dose over a period of a few months. Quetiapine, also known by … Read more

A mental health therapist can help you work through difficult situations and emotions. But if you’re new to therapy, you might have a lot of questions. For instance, you may wonder, “How do I open up and tell my therapist what I really feel?” or “Will my therapist think I’m ‘crazy’ or a lost cause?” Even people who’ve … Read more