And while at first glance it may seem that these process addictions could not possibly have the same negative effects as alcohol or drug addiction – that simply is not true. All addictions – whether substance or process addictions – can wreak absolute havoc on the addict’s life and the lives of those close to them.

What are Process Addictions?

Addiction is a primary, chronic disease that involves altering the brain’s reward function. With process addictions, the action or activity that the addict pursues triggers the reward system. With time, the addict cannot derive the same pleasure from other activities as he can through the process of which he is addicted to.

Types of Process Addictions Treated at The Cabin Chiang Mai in Thailand

There are four main types of process addictions, and while the treatment for each one is similar – the addiction itself varies as follows:

Gambling addiction. Many countries around the world not only allow legal gambling – but they encourage it. And for some, betting and gambling can become an addiction. It is estimated that approximately 2-3% of Americans are currently suffering from gambling addiction. That’s approximately 6 million gambling addicts in the U.S. alone! Gambling addiction, or compulsive gambling, occurs when a person is unable to stop gambling – despite the fact that they are suffering negative consequences such as large amounts of debt, ruined relationships, and more.

Internet addiction. Through smartphones, tablets and laptops, the World Wide Web is now at your fingertips and accessible every minute of every day. And unfortunately, it is becoming increasingly difficult to tell the difference between ‘normal’ internet use and internet addiction. While one of the greatest benefits of the internet is keeping in touch with friends and family near and far, when internet usage begins interfering with your ‘real-life’ relationships, work or school productivity and even your health – it is a sign that you have likely got an internet addiction.

Sex addiction. Sex is a normal part of human life. For some people, however, it becomes almost an obsession. Sex addiction occurs when a person spends increasing amounts of time thinking about and seeking out new sexual encounters. When sex and sexual thoughts begin ruining relationships, decreasing work or school productivity, and other negative effects, it is likely that you are suffering from sex addiction.

How we treat Process Addictions at The Cabin Chiang Mai

Not all addiction treatment centres are trained and equipped to deal with process addictions. At The Cabin Chiang Mai, however, we offer a comprehensive, world-class addiction treatment for process addictions programme that can successfully treat any of the above-mentioned addictions.

Our unique Recovery Zones model is specifically designed to treat addictions where abstinence is not possible as a lifelong goal, such as in the case of those suffering from sex and internet addiction. The Recovery Zones use a combination of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), 12 Steps, and mindfulness meditation to successfully treat these addictions, as well as equip clients with relapse prevention strategies.

Getting Help Now – Why You Should Not Wait

Challenges of Treating Process Addictions

Drug and alcohol addiction are treated much differently than process addictions because other than gambling addiction, complete abstinence is not possible. Completely abstaining from food will obviously cause death, and abstaining from sex or internet is just not realistic.

Since most substance addiction treatment programmes revolve around abstinence, process addiction programmes must be altered to fit these addictions. This is, of course, why it is so important to find an addiction treatment centre that has actual experience treating process addictions, such as The Cabin Chiang Mai in Thailand. Our counsellors are well trained in sex, internet and gambling addictions and of course the challenges that these addictions present.

What to Expect during Process Addiction Rehab in Thailand

Medically supervised detox is not required for process addictions, as the body is not physically dependent on these behaviours. Thus, our clients with process addictions will move straight into a treatment schedule of group and one-on-on counselling sessions combined with physical and mental fitness activities such as mindfulness therapy, physical fitness and more.

Our clients will be taught, using CBT, 12 Steps and Recovery Zones, how to avoid addiction triggers and will be provided with many new coping strategies for when they are faced with cravings or unavoidable triggers. Those suffering from food addiction will have specially prepared meals each day.

Is Process Addiction Treatment Confidential?

Absolutely. At The Cabin Chiang Mai we take every precaution necessary to ensure the privacy and confidentiality of our clients.

Is Rehab for Process Addiction covered by Insurance?

This depends on your own personal policy plan, but it many cases yes, it is. Be sure to contact one of our staff to find out more about your particular case.