ALCOHOL & DRUGS
Used to numb stress or anxiety; create short relief but deepen instability.
NICOTINE & STIMULANTS
Dependence around focus and energy; reward spikes followed by crashes.
OPIOIDS & SEDATIVES
Numb pain or fear; disrupt stress regulation and emotional processing.
CANNABIS
Escapes anxiety or trauma; delays decision-making and motivation.
WORK & PERFECTIONISM
Overachievement masks fear of failure and worth issues.
GAMBLING & RISK TAKING
Thrill cycles of anticipation, loss, and regret.
SEX & FOOD
Temporary comfort or validation followed by guilt and shame.
INTERNET & SOCIAL MEDIA
Digital escape producing constant reward-crash patterns.
SHOPPING & EXERCISE
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.
