Understanding Cross Addiction and Cross Dependence
Breaking The Cycle: Introduction
Cross addiction and cross dependence are often confused by people as they are related concepts and can occur simultaneously. They both refer to addictive behaviors. People who are struggling with addiction may not be aware of the possibility of developing a cross addiction or cross dependence, and may not recognize the signs that they are happening.
Additionally, people may use the terms cross addiction and cross dependence interchangeably, further adding to the confusion. Furthermore, some people may not understand the difference between the psychological process of cross addiction and the physiological process of cross dependence, leading them to think that they are the same thing.
This confusion can lead to difficulties in recognizing the presence of cross addiction and cross dependence, which can make it harder to address and overcome.
Definition of cross addiction and cross dependence
Cross addiction is a behavioral dependency. It refers to developing a new addiction to something else, such as a behavior or substance, after overcoming an addiction to something else.
For example, if someone who was physically addicted to alcohol stops drinking and starts to gamble, becoming psychologically dependent on that behaviour, they have developed a cross addiction.
Cross dependence, is a physical dependency. For example, if someone who was physically dependent on opioids stops taking them and becomes physically dependent on sleeping pills, they have developed a cross dependence.
Cross addiction and cross dependence can occur simultaneously and can be related, but they are not the same thing.
Cross Addiction and Cross Dependency in Greater Depth
Cross addiction refers to developing a new addiction, which is a psychological dependence, to something else such as a behavior or new substance after overcoming an addiction to something else. This is a psychological process of replacing one addiction with another.
What does cross dependence mean then? Cross dependence refers to becoming dependent on something else physically or emotionally after overcoming a physical or emotional dependence on something else. This is a physical or physiological process, as it involves the body’s adaptation to the presence of a substance or behavior.
In summary, cross addiction and cross dependence can happen together, but cross addiction refers to the psychological process of developing a new addiction and cross dependence refers to the physical or physiological process of becoming dependent on something else.
Cross addiction and cross dependence can occur simultaneously and can be related, but they are not the same thing.
Cross addiction refers to developing a new addiction, which is a psychological dependence, to something else such as a behavior or substance after overcoming an addiction to something else. This is a psychological process of replacing one addiction with another.
Cross dependence, on the other hand, refers to becoming dependent on something else physically or emotionally after overcoming a physical or emotional dependence on something else. This is a physical or physiological process, as it involves the body’s adaptation to the presence of a substance or behavior.
In summary, cross addiction and cross dependence can happen together, but cross addiction refers to the psychological process of developing a new addiction and cross dependence refers to the physical or physiological process of becoming dependent on something else.
Understanding cross addiction and cross dependence is important in order to prevent and address this phenomenon in recovery and in the process of overcoming addiction.
Differences between chemical and behavioral addictions
Chemical addiction and behavioral addiction are two different types of addiction that can occur in an individual.
Chemical addiction refers to addiction to a substance that alters the chemical balance in the brain, such as drugs, alcohol, and certain medications.
These substances can create a physical dependence in the body, meaning that the body becomes accustomed to their presence and withdrawal symptoms can occur if the substance is removed.
Behavioral addiction refers to addiction to a specific behavior or activity, such as gambling, sex, shopping, or internet use. These behaviors can create a psychological dependence, meaning that the individual becomes emotionally and mentally reliant on the behavior to cope with stress or negative emotions.
Behavioral addiction does not typically produce physical withdrawal symptoms like chemical addiction does, but it can cause significant disruptions in an individual’s life.
How Does Cross Addiction Work In The Brain?
The neurobiological mechanisms of cross addiction involve changes in the brain’s reward system and other neural networks that regulate behavior and emotions.
When an individual uses a substance or engages in a behavior that activates the brain’s reward pathways, it releases chemicals such as large amounts of dopamine, which create a sense of pleasure and euphoria.
Over time, the brain becomes accustomed to this dopamine rush and the presence of the substance or behavior, and it starts to require higher doses in order to achieve the same level of pleasure. This leads to addiction.
In the case of cross addiction, the brain’s reward system becomes accustomed to the presence of the primary addiction, and when that substance or behavior is removed, the brain’s reward system becomes less active.
This leads to withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and irritability. To alleviate these symptoms, an individual may turn to another substance or behavior that can activate the brain’s reward system. This is how cross addiction occurs.
Some addictive drugs, such as alcohol, valium, and opiates create a physical tolerance where the body becomes used to their presence and stops producing its normal neurotransmitters. That means when you stop taking the substance, you feel physically ill as well as psychologically craving the substance.
Additionally, some studies suggest that cross addiction may be related to changes in other neural networks that regulate behavior and emotions, such as the stress response and the emotional regulation systems. These neural networks, when impacted by addiction, may increase the risk of developing cross addiction.
In summary, the neurobiological mechanisms of cross addiction involve changes in the brain’s reward system and other neural networks that regulate behavior and emotions. These changes in the brain can make an individual more vulnerable to developing cross addiction when their primary addiction is removed.
How Does Cross Addiction Occur?
One way is through replacement addiction, where an individual replaces one addiction with another. For example, an individual who is recovering from an addiction to alcohol may start to gamble excessively, which can be seen as cross addictions, or substitute addictions.
Another way is through self-medication, where an individual uses a different substance or behavior to cope with the symptoms of withdrawal or negative emotions from their primary addiction. For example, an individual who is recovering from an addiction to opioids may start to use marijuana to alleviate their withdrawal symptoms, which can be seen as a cross addiction.
Additionally, some people may not be aware of their triggers, and may not be aware of the potential for cross addiction. For example, people who are recovering from an addiction to alcohol may not be aware that they are using exercise as a replacement addiction, which may lead to cross addiction.
Examples of cross addictions
There are several examples of the most common cross addictions:
Alcohol use disorder to drug use disorder:
Individuals who are recovering from alcohol abuse may start to use drugs such as cocaine or opioids as a replacement addiction.
Drug dependence to gambling:
Individuals who are recovering from an addiction to illicit drugs such cocaine or prescription drugs such as opioids or cocaine may start to gamble excessively as a replacement addiction. From the point of view of addiction, it makes no difference if drug abusers are dependent on prescription medications such an an opioid painkiller or they are are suffering from heroin addictions. An opioid use disorder doesn’t care if your substance is legal or not. Your substance of choice is still your poison.
Food to exercise:
Individuals who are recovering from an addiction to food may start to exercise excessively to control their weight, which can lead to an addiction to exercise.
Shopping to internet addiction:
Individuals who are recovering from an addiction to shopping may start to spend excessive amounts of time on the internet, which can lead to an addiction to internet use.
Nicotine to caffeine:
Individuals who are recovering from an addiction to nicotine may start to consume excessive amounts of caffeine, which can lead to a caffeine addiction.
Sex addiction to internet pornography:
Individuals who are recovering from an addiction to sex may start to excessively use internet pornography as a replacement addiction.
How to recognize the signs of cross addiction
Recognizing the signs of cross addiction can be challenging, as the symptoms can be similar to those of the primary addiction or withdrawal symptoms. However, there are several signs that may indicate the presence of cross addiction:
- Obsessive behavior: Engaging in a new behavior or substance excessively and compulsively, even when it interferes with daily life activities.
- Withdrawal symptoms: Experiencing physical or psychological symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, depression, or insomnia when the new behavior or substance is not available.
- Lying or hiding: Being dishonest or secretive about the new behavior or substance, or engaging in it in secret.
- Loss of control: Being unable to stop or reduce the new behavior or substance despite negative consequences.
- Prioritizing the new behavior or substance over other responsibilities: Neglecting family, work, or school obligations in favor of the new behavior or substance.
- Continued use despite negative consequences: Continuing to engage in the new behavior or substance despite negative physical or psychological consequences such as financial problems, relationship issues, or health complications.
It is important to note that not everyone who develops a cross addiction will show all of these signs, and that in some cases, the signs may be subtle. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the potential for cross addiction, and to address it during treatment and recovery.
Cross Addiction and Dual Diagnosis
Cross addiction and dual diagnosis are related in that they both involve the presence of multiple conditions that can affect an individual’s mental and physical health. There are certain risk factors for dual diagnosis.
Dual diagnosis refers to the presence of both a substance use disorder such as drug addiction and a mental health disorder, such as depression or anxiety.
Cross addiction, as previously discussed, is the development of a new addiction to a substance or behavior after overcoming an addiction to another substance or behavior.
Individuals with dual diagnosis are at a higher risk of developing cross addiction because their psychiatric disorders can make them more vulnerable to addiction. For example, an individual with depression may turn to alcohol as a way to cope with their symptoms, and later on, develop a cross addiction to gambling.
Similarly, individuals who are recovering from addiction may be at a higher risk of developing a dual diagnosis because of the impact of addiction on the brain. For example, someone who is recovering from an addiction to opioids may be at a higher risk of developing depression or anxiety because of the changes to the brain’s reward system and other neural networks that regulate behavior and emotions.
In summary, cross addiction and dual diagnosis are related in that they both involve the presence of multiple conditions that can affect an individual’s mental and physical health. Individuals with dual diagnosis are at a higher risk of developing cross addiction and vice-versa, and it’s important to address both conditions in treatment and recovery.
How to identify dual diagnosis
Some signs that an individual may have dual diagnosis in addiction include:
- A history of mental health disorders: Individuals with a history of mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD may be at a higher risk of developing a substance use disorder.
- Using substances to cope with mental health symptoms: Individuals who have an alcohol use disorder, or who use drugs to cope with the symptoms of their mental health disorder may be at risk of developing a substance use disorder.
- Experiencing both physical and psychological symptoms: Individuals who have both physical symptoms related to substance abuse such as withdrawal symptoms and psychological symptoms related to their mental health disorder may have dual diagnosis.
- Difficulty controlling substance use: Individuals who have difficulty controlling their substance use, despite negative consequences, may have a substance use disorder.
- Difficulty in sustaining recovery: individuals who have difficulty maintaining recovery from addiction despite having received treatment may have an underlying mental health disorder that is affecting their recovery.
- Persistence of symptoms: if symptoms of mental health disorder persist despite substance abuse treatment, it may indicate an underlying dual diagnosis.
It’s important to note that not everyone who has a dual diagnosis will show all of these signs, and that in some cases, the signs may be subtle. Therefore, it’s important for individuals with addiction to be assessed for dual diagnosis, as addressing both conditions is essential for effective treatment and recovery.
Cross Addiction in Recovery
Developing a new addiction during recovery can be challenging, but it’s important to address it in order to maintain long-term recovery. Here are a few thoughts on what to do if you develop a new addiction during recovery:
- Seek professional help: If you suspect that you have developed a new addiction, it’s important to seek professional help as soon as possible. This can include a substance abuse counselor, a therapist, or a psychiatrist who specializes in addiction.
- Be honest with yourself and others: It’s important to be honest with yourself and others about the new addiction, as denial and secrecy can prolong the problem.
- Address the underlying issues: It’s important to address the underlying issues that may have led to the development of the new addiction. This can include mental health disorders, past trauma, or stress.
- Develop a new support network: Building a new support network can help you maintain recovery from the new addiction. This can include joining a support group or finding a therapist or counselor who specializes in the new addiction.
- Learn new coping mechanisms: Developing new coping mechanisms can help you manage the underlying issues that led to the new addiction. This can include learning mindfulness techniques, practicing stress-management techniques, or engaging in regular exercise.
- Keep a watchful eye: it’s important to be vigilant, to be aware of the potential for cross addiction and to address it during recovery.
In summary, developing a new addiction during recovery can be challenging, but it’s important to address it in order to maintain long-term recovery. This can include seeking professional help, being honest, addressing underlying issues, developing a new support network, learning new coping mechanisms and keeping a watchful eye.
How To Avoid Cross Addiction
- Here are some tips for avoiding cross addiction:
- Identify triggers: Understanding the triggers that led to your primary addiction can help you avoid similar situations in the future. This can include identifying people, places, or things that may trigger a desire to use a substance or engage in a behavior.
- Develop healthy coping mechanisms: Finding healthy ways to cope with stress, anxiety, or other emotions can help you avoid turning to a new addiction. This can include exercise, mindfulness techniques, journaling, or talking to a therapist or counselor.
- Find new hobbies and interests: Engaging in new hobbies and interests can help you replace the time and energy that you previously spent on your primary addiction.
- Build a strong support network: Building a strong support network can help you avoid cross addiction by providing you with the emotional support you need to stay on track.
- Stay aware of your emotional state: Paying attention to your emotional state, and addressing any negative feelings that may arise, can help you avoid cross addiction.
- Seek professional help: If you are in recovery, seeking professional help and support can help you avoid cross addiction. This can include therapy, counseling, or addiction treatment.
- Be open to feedback: Be open to feedback from others, and be willing to listen to their concerns about your behavior or substance use.
Treatment for Cross Addiction
There are several treatment options available for cross addiction, which can include:
Behavioral therapy:
Behavioral therapy can help individuals with cross addiction to identify and change negative patterns of behavior. Common types of behavioral therapy include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
Medication-assisted treatment:
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) can help individuals overcome physical dependence on a substance. This can include medications such as buprenorphine, methadone, or naltrexone.
Support groups:
Support groups such as 12-step programs can provide individuals with a sense of community and emotional support as they work through the recovery process.
Addiction counseling:
Addiction counseling can help individuals with cross addiction to understand the underlying causes of their addiction, and to develop a plan for recovery.
Holistic therapies:
Holistic therapies such as yoga, meditation, and acupuncture can help individuals manage stress, anxiety, and other emotions in a healthy way.
Inpatient/residential treatment:
Inpatient or residential treatment centers provide a structured and safe environment for individuals to work through their cross addiction and any underlying mental health issues.
Outpatient treatment:
Outpatient treatment allows individuals to receive treatment while continuing to live at home, which can be beneficial for those who have obligations or responsibilities that they can’t leave behind.
It’s important to note that treatment for cross addiction should be tailored to the individual’s unique needs and circumstances. A combination of different treatment options may be necessary for an effective recovery.
and Stars for ever dwell:
I will not say the Day is done,
nor bid the Stars farewell.
New or Experimental Treatments for Cross Addiction
There are some newer, more experimental treatments for cross addiction that are currently being researched and studied. These include:
Mindfulness-based therapies:
Mindfulness-based therapies such as Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention (MBRP) have been found to be effective in reducing relapse rates for individuals with addiction.
Virtual reality therapy:
Virtual reality therapy has been used to treat addiction by simulating high-risk situations in a controlled environment and helping individuals learn how to cope with triggers and cravings.
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS):
TMS is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate certain areas of the brain. It has shown promising results in reducing cravings and improving mood in individuals with addiction.
Ibogaine:
Ibogaine is a psychedelic substance that has been used to treat addiction in some countries, although it’s still an experimental treatment and not widely available.
Psilocybin:
Psilocybin is another psychedelic substance that has shown promise in treating addiction and other mental health conditions. Studies have shown that it may help individuals break the cycle of addiction by resetting the brain’s reward system.
It’s important to note that these treatments are still being researched and studied, and they may not be widely available or considered appropriate for everyone. It’s always best to consult with a mental health professional or addiction specialist before trying any new or experimental treatment.
How to find a treatment program for cross addiction
How to Help a Loved One With Cross Addiction
Helping a loved one through cross addiction can be challenging, but there are steps you can take to support them on their journey to recovery. Here are a few tips on how to help a loved one through cross addiction:
- Educate yourself: Learn about cross addiction, including the signs and symptoms, and how it can affect your loved one.
- Be supportive: Show your loved one that you care and that you’re there to support them, but also be aware of enabling them to continue the addiction.
- Encourage professional help: Encourage your loved one to seek professional help, such as therapy or counseling.
- Listen and be understanding: Listen to your loved one without judgment, and try to understand their perspective.
- Help them to find healthy coping mechanisms: Help your loved one find healthy ways to cope with stress, anxiety, or other emotions, such as exercise, mindfulness techniques, or hobbies.
- Be patient: Recovery can be a long process, and relapses are common. Be patient and understanding.
- Take care of yourself: Taking care of your own mental and emotional health is important, as helping a loved one with cross addiction can be emotionally taxing.
- Encourage them to join a support group: Support groups can provide a sense of community and emotional support for individuals in recovery.
- Be a positive role model: Show your loved one that it’s possible to live a healthy, fulfilling life without relying on addiction.
Cross Addiction Statistics
Cross addiction, also known as addiction transfer or Addiction Interaction Disorder, is when a person has two or more addictive behaviors. According to a study by researchers at the University of Michigan, in the United States, a person that recovers from alcohol dependence is 18 times more likely to develop an addiction to another substance.
The findings of the large national study indicated that 13% of individuals who had successfully dealt with their primary addiction developed a cross addiction.
Amongst the general population of adults suffering from Substance Use Disorders (SUDs), at least 9% experience cross-addiction. Cross addiction is a very real risk for people who have successfully completed a drug or alcohol treatment program at rehab. Examples of cross addictions include switching from one substance to another, such as alcohol to marijuana, opioid addiction to alcohol addiction, or from one behavior to another, such as gambling to shopping. It is important for individuals in recovery to be aware of the risks associated with cross addiction and take steps to prevent it.
How cross addiction affects different populations
Cross addiction can affect different populations in different ways. The specific effects will depend on a variety of factors such as the type of addiction, the severity of the addiction, and the individual’s unique circumstances. However, some general observations can be made:
- Age: Younger individuals may be more susceptible to cross addiction due to their developing brains and lack of life experience.
- Gender: Research suggests that men may be more susceptible to cross addiction to alcohol and drugs, while women may be more susceptible to behavioral addictions such as shopping and food addiction.
- Ethnicity and culture: Different cultural and ethnic backgrounds may affect an individual’s perception of addiction and their access to resources and support.
- Socioeconomic status: People from lower socioeconomic backgrounds may be more likely to develop cross addiction due to a lack of resources and support.
- Trauma: Individuals with a history of trauma may be more susceptible to cross addiction as a means of self-medicating and coping with emotional pain.
- Mental health: Individuals with underlying mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD may be more likely to develop cross addiction as a means of self-medicating.
It’s important to note that cross addiction can affect anyone regardless of their background, and each individual’s experience will be unique. Therefore, it’s crucial to address the specific needs of each patient and provide tailored treatment for the best outcome.
The role of stigma in cross addiction
Stigma can play a significant role in cross addiction, as it can make it difficult for individuals to seek help and support. Some of the ways that stigma can affect individuals with cross addiction include:
- Shame and embarrassment: Many individuals may feel ashamed or embarrassed to admit that they have a problem with cross addiction, which can make it difficult for them to reach out for help.
- Lack of understanding: Cross addiction can be a complex and misunderstood condition, which can make it difficult for individuals to find accurate information and support.
- Limited access to resources: Stigma can also make it difficult for individuals to access the resources and support that they need to overcome cross addiction.
- Discrimination: Individuals with cross addiction may experience discrimination and negative attitudes from others, which can further complicate their recovery.
- Fear of judgment: Individuals may be afraid of being judged or misunderstood by friends, family, and healthcare professionals which can prevent them from seeking help.
It’s important to remember that cross addiction is a medical condition, and individuals with cross addiction deserve the same level of care and compassion as individuals with any other medical condition. By breaking down the stigma surrounding cross addiction and providing accurate information and support, we can help individuals to overcome this condition and improve their quality of life.
Final Thoughts on Cross Addictions
A. Summary of key points on cross addiction
B. How to continue learning about cross addiction
C. Additional resources for further reading
D. The importance of self-care and self-compassion during the process of recovery
Additional Resources
There are several resources available for individuals with cross addiction, including:
Addiction treatment centers: Addiction treatment centers provide a wide range of services, including detoxification, counseling, therapy, and support groups. They can also provide specialized care for individuals with cross addiction. You can find a local treatment center by visiting the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) website: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-treatment
Support groups: Support groups such as 12-step programs can provide individuals with a sense of community and emotional support as they work through the recovery process. You can find a local support group by visiting the website of organizations such as Alcoholics Anonymous: https://www.aa.org/ or Narcotics Anonymous: https://www.na.org/
Therapists and counselors: Therapists and counselors can help individuals with cross addiction to understand the underlying causes of their addiction, and to develop a plan for recovery. You can find a therapist or counselor by visiting the website of the American Psychological Association: https://www.apa.org/ or the American Counseling Association: https://www.counseling.org/
Online resources: There are many online resources available for individuals with cross addiction, such as websites, forums, and support groups. Some popular resources include: https://www.addictioncenter.com/ or https://www.recovery.org/
Hotlines: Hotlines can provide individuals with immediate help and support. They can provide referrals to local treatment centers, support groups and other resources. Some popular hotlines include: the National Helpline (1-800-662-HELP (4357)) or the Crisis Text Line (text 741741).
National organizations: National organizations such as the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) https://www.drugabuse.gov/ and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) https://www.samhsa.gov/ provide information and resources on addiction, including cross addiction.
Community-based organizations: Community-based organizations such as faith-based groups, civic groups, and non-profits can provide support and resources for individuals with cross addiction, such as counseling, education, and support groups.