FEATURED MEDICAL EDUCATION TOPIC: Behavioral Addictions: Gambling, Internet, Sex & Shopping

What is the problem?

Behavioral addiction refers to a compulsive engagement in rewarding behaviors that are not substance-related. Examples include internet/technology use, gambling, sex, shopping, and food. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly altered people’s lifestyles, which in turn may have contributed to an increase in addictive behaviors. Physicians play a pivotal role in addressing behavioral addictions by routinely screening for them, identifying early warning signs, providing brief interventions, and facilitating referrals to specialized treatment. As part of a holistic approach to care, they help reduce the stigma associated with addiction, address co-occurring mental health conditions, and support long-term recovery efforts.

Learning Objectives

At the conclusion of this activity, the learners will be able to:

• Identify behavioral addictions, including gambling, problematic internet use, problematic sexual behaviors, and compulsive buying disorder 
• Recognize clinical clues for diagnosis and ways to differentiate from use that is not problematic 
• Identify treatment of behavioral addictions and complications resulting from these

If your medical staff needs a speaker on behavioral addictions, consider contacting our office to book a speaker at 714-505-4777 or info@speakersnetwork.com.

REFERENCES

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36118286/

https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpub/article/PIIS2468-2667%2824%2900126-9/fulltext 

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10316175/