SUBSTANCE: Chemically alter brain’s reward pathway and stress-regulation systems.

Used to numb stress or anxiety; create short relief but deepen instability. 

Dependence around focus and energy; reward spikes followed by crashes. 

Numb pain or fear; disrupt stress regulation and emotional processing. 

Escapes anxiety or trauma; delays decision-making and motivation. 

Overachievement masks fear of failure and worth issues. 

Thrill cycles of anticipation, loss, and regret. 

Temporary comfort or validation followed by guilt and shame. 

Digital escape producing constant reward-crash patterns. 

Control emotions through spending or activity disguised as productivity.  

Meaning: Success becomes tied to worth.

Impact: Burnout, chronic stress, and disconnection from emotional needs. 

Meaning: Helping others provides temporary relief from inner pain. Guilt after burnout fuels the cycle.

Impact: Codependency, resentment, and depletion. 

Meaning: Control provides a false sense of safety when uncertainty feels dangerous. Resistance reignites anxiety.

Impact: Relationship strain, rigid thinking, and tension.

Meaning: Avoidance behaviors numb uncomfortable emotions but reinforce dependence on external relief.

Impact: Emotional detachment and impulsivity.