If you have stopped any addictive substance or behavior in the past, you may have noticed that another addiction pops up in its place. This is easy to understand, when we realize that addiction is simply a compulsion to change how we feel. If you stop taking drugs or drinking alcohol, for example, unless you address the underlying problems, they will still remain and cause you to seek another substance or behavior to latch on to.

In this article, we look at how cross addiction happens, and how you can get to the underlying causes of addiction so you can break the cycle of cross addiction.

Types of Cross Addictions

Cross addiction can happen between any substance or behavior. Here are a few examples of how cross addiction plays out.

Substance-to-Substance Cross Addiction

Substance-to-substance cross addiction is a type of addictive behavior in which someone replaces one substance with another. This can occur when someone who has developed a dependence on alcohol or drugs switches to another substance such as cocaine, marijuana, or prescription drugs instead. This type of addiction is particularly dangerous because people often find themselves swapping one substance for another in an effort to avoid withdrawal symptoms or lessen their cravings, which can lead to a cycle of addiction as they move from one substance to the next.

When someone struggles with substance-to-substance cross addiction, they may also be at risk of developing physical and psychological dependency on the new substance. For instance, a person who is addicted to alcohol may switch to using marijuana in order to avoid experiencing withdrawal symptoms from alcohol, only to quickly become addicted to marijuana as well as suffer withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking it. People with substance-to-substance cross addiction are at risk of experiencing long-term health problems and complications due to their use of different substances.

In order to effectively treat substance-to-substance cross addiction, individuals must receive specialized treatment specific to the type of substances they are using. Treatment programs should include a combination of individual counseling, group therapy, and other evidence-based methods such as cognitive-behavioral therapy. Medication may be provided to help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms while the individual works to establish healthier lifestyle habits.

Substance-to-Behavior Cross Addiction

Substance-to-behavior cross addiction is a type of addictive behavior in which someone replaces one substance with a behavior. This pattern of addiction is characterized by an individual who has become physically or psychologically dependent on a substance such as alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications and then replaces it with a behavior such as taking part in gambling, shopping, or other activities that can give them a psychological boost similar to the feeling they get from using substances.

The behaviors associated with substance-to-behavior cross addiction can be difficult to identify because, in many cases, they are socially acceptable activities. For instance, someone may switch from drinking alcohol to shopping for clothes or going on spending sprees as a way to cope with their cravings and avoid withdrawal symptoms. As with other types of addiction, people who engage in substance-to-behavior cross addiction can suffer from a range of physical and psychological health problems due to their behavior.

Treating substance-to-behavior cross addiction requires an individualized approach. Treatment focuses on helping individuals identify the underlying causes of their addiction, as well as providing them with healthier coping mechanisms that do not involve engaging in risky behaviors. Medications may sometimes be provided to help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms while the individual works to establish healthier habits and routines.

Behavior-to-Behavior Cross Addiction

Behavior-to-behavior cross addiction is a type of addictive behavior in which someone replaces one behavior with another instead of abstaining from all risky activities. This pattern of addiction is characterized by an individual who has become dependent on a behavior such as gambling, shopping, or other activities that give them a psychological boost and then replaces it with another behavior such as promiscuous sex.

While most people consider addiction to substances to be the most harmful form of addiction, do not be misled, addiction to addictive behaviors can be incredibly destructive, and in extreme examples can even kill.

Common Triggers for Cross Addiction

To gain a better understanding of cross addiction, here is a list of ways that addictive substance abuse or behavior is triggered, as well as some underlying factors that frequently occur when someone has cross addiction.

Genetic factors

Genetic factors may contribute to a person’s susceptibility to cross addiction. For example, those with a family history of substance abuse are more likely to develop an addiction themselves. Certain genetic predispositions can influence the risk for addiction and may lead some people toward using multiple substances or activities as a way of self-medicating or coping.

Environmental factors

Environmental factors can also have a significant impact on the development of cross addiction. Those exposed to substance abuse in their home or community may be more likely to engage in similar behaviors themselves due to familiarity with the behavior and its associated rewards. If an individual is unable to meet basic needs, they may turn to drugs, alcohol, or gambling in order to cope with their environment.

Psychological factors

Psychological factors can play a role in the development of addiction as well. Those suffering from mental health illnesses like  depression and anxiety may find solace in substance abuse, which leads to further addiction problems. Unaddressed trauma unresolved issues may also lead an individual to seek relief in activities that provide a temporary respite from their inner turmoil.

Social factors

Social factors can contribute to the risk of cross addiction. An individual’s peer group and the culture they find themselves in may influence their behaviors and create an atmosphere that encourages drug use or other addictive behaviors. Those who lack positive support systems may find themselves engaging in activities that provide them with acceptance and validation.

Underlying Factors for Cross Addiction

Often when someone experiences cross addiction, there are underlying factors involved. Once these factors are addressed, it becomes much easier to free yourself from the grips of cross addiction.

Stress

Stress is a common factor in the cycle of addictive behaviors. Stress can cause people to turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as drugs or alcohol, to make themselves feel better. Stressful life events can trigger a relapse even after long-term recovery has been achieved. Chronic stress can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair that can further drive an individual to seek temporary relief through substance use and addictive behaviors. People with higher levels of stress may be more susceptible to addiction due to the availability of substances and a lack of adequate coping strategies.

Trauma

Trauma is another important factor in the cycle of addictive behaviors. Traumatic events can lead people to become dependent on drugs or alcohol for comfort and feelings of security. Trauma can cause someone to have difficulty with regulating emotions, which can lead them to seek out substances as a form of escape. Traumatic experiences may also lead individuals to develop maladaptive coping mechanisms such as substance use in order to cope with the emotional pain they are feeling.

Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders

Co-occurring mental health disorders are often seen in individuals struggling with addiction. Common co-occurring mental health disorders include depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and personality disorders. These conditions can increase the risk of developing an addiction as a way to cope with the symptoms associated with these disorders. 

Other Influences

Other influences such as environmental factors and family dynamics can also affect the cycle of addiction. Family members who have struggled with substance abuse or mental health issues have been found to increase an individual’s risk for substance use. Living in communities that lack adequate support systems or are economically disadvantaged can make it difficult for individuals to access treatment and recovery resources. Certain cultures may value the use of drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with life’s problems, which can further increase the risk of addiction.

Neurobiology of Cross Addiction

There are underlying neurobiological factors that drive cross addiction. In this section, we examine some of these.

Brain Chemistry and Cross Addiction

The brain is composed of billions of neurons that communicate with each other through electrical impulses, neurotransmitters, and hormones. Research has established a connection between these chemical messengers and cross addiction: when one substance is abused, it can change the way neurotransmitters interact in the brain and thus alter its chemistry. Subsequent exposure to other substances may hijack these altered pathways and create an increased risk for cross addiction.

Reward Pathways and Cross Addiction

The reward system is responsible for processing pleasurable stimuli, such as those associated with substance use. This system releases dopamine when pleasure is experienced, reinforcing the behavior. Over time, substance abuse can cause changes to this reward system and lead to an increased tolerance of the drug, or cross addiction. When another substance is then introduced, it may hijack these altered pathways with its own dopamine release, leading to potential cross addiction.

Craving and Cross Addiction

Drug use affects the brain’s pleasure and reward pathways, leading to a strong craving for the drug. This craving can drive addictive behaviors and increase an individual’s risk of cross addiction. When a person already has become addicted to one substance, they are more likely to be susceptible to the effects of another. This is especially true if the other substance is similar in structure, effects, or administration methods. 

The risk of cross addiction is further exacerbated by the presence of physiological and psychological dependence on one substance. In such cases, an individual may be more likely to succumb to the allure of another substance if it promises a similar euphoric feeling or high.

Impact on Physical and Mental Health

Cross addiction can have a profoundly negative effect on physical and mental health. Here are some of the severe problems that can occur due to cross addiction.

Overdose and Accidental Death

When someone is using multiple substances, as often happens during cross addiction, they may use more than intended, putting them at greater risk of overdosing. This can lead to serious respiratory depression, coma, brain damage, or even death. 

Organ Damage

Substance use disorders can cause damage to the organs, including the lungs, heart, liver, and kidneys. Chronic alcohol abuse or polydrug use can lead to cirrhosis of the liver. Permanent brain damage is often caused by long-term substance use.

Health Complications

Cross addiction can also lead to a variety of health complications, including mental and physical impairment, memory loss, sleep disturbances, weakened immunity, fatigue, and nutritional deficiencies. Substance abuse can also contribute to higher risk of developing infections such as HIV/AIDS and hepatitis C from sharing needles or engaging in risky sexual behavior.

Mental health problems

Substance cross addiction can have a serious impact on mental health. People who are addicted to multiple substances, which often occuring during cross addiction, are more likely to develop depression, anxiety, and other forms of mental illness. Substance cross addiction can also lead to overwhelming feelings of guilt and shame that can further contribute to the worsening of mental health issues. 

Strategies for Managing Drug and Behavioral Addiction Triggers

People in recovery often experience triggers, or cues that cause them to crave addictive substances or behaviors. Identifying these triggers is the first step in managing them and preventing relapse. Some common triggers include:

• Stress: High levels of stress can create strong cravings for drugs and alcohol.
• Certain people or places: Seeing certain people or being in places that were associated with past substance use can lead to intense cravings.
• Emotional states: Feelings such as anger, depression, or boredom can bring on cravings.

Developing Healthy Coping Skills

To successfully manage triggers, it is crucial to develop healthy coping skills that do not involve substance use or other addictive behaviors. Some strategies for developing healthier coping mechanisms include:

• Identifying triggers and planning ahead: Taking the time to identify potential triggers and create a plan of action for dealing with them can lessen the chances of relapse.
• Participating in self-care activities: Self-care activities such as yoga, meditation, and exercise can help to reduce stress and cravings.
• Connecting with a supportive network: Creating a support network of family members, friends, and mental health professionals is essential for recovery.

Maintaining a Balanced Recovery

Successful recovery requires ongoing effort, dedication, and hard work. Make sure you maintain a balanced lifestyle that includes healthy habits such as proper nutrition, sufficient sleep, exercise, and stress management. Engaging in meaningful activities can help to reduce the risk of relapse by providing purpose and fulfillment.

Recovery is possible, but it takes time and effort. By utilizing these strategies for managing triggers, developing healthy coping skills, and maintaining a balanced recovery, those in recovery can be successful in their journey towards sobriety.

Seeking Help and Support

Addiction treatment services provide specialized care that can help you overcome your addiction and achieve lasting sobriety. A specialized program will tailor the treatment to your individual needs and offer supportive resources to better equip you for success in your recovery journey.

Addiction treatment services can provide effective and evidence-based treatments to help you address the underlying causes of your drug use, as well as any co-occurring mental health conditions. With this comprehensive approach to recovery, you will receive individualized care from experienced professionals who understand what it takes for successful sobriety.

Conclusion

Cross addiction is a very real and serious danger. It occurs when someone who has an addiction to one substance or behavior begins to rely on another substance or behavior in order to satisfy their cravings. It is especially dangerous because a person can become addicted to something that may not even seem harmful, like alcohol or gambling. This creates a cycle of addictive behavior as the person becomes more and more dependent on different substances or activities to find relief from their cravings.

If you are suffering from cross addiction, we feel your pain. Managing to put down one substance or behavior just to have another one pop up is excruciatingly frustrating. Know that there is help available.
PRAJNA Bali uses a holistic synergy of eastern wisdom traditions and western sciences to treat addiction. Working with PRAJNA Bali means taking part in an individualized program that gets to the root of your addiction. Once the core of your addiction is found and treated, occurrences of cross addiction become far more manageable. Contact us today to find out how we can help you with your cross addiction.