Whether you’re an athlete or just love to exercise, if you find yourself doing it all the time, you might be suffering from exercise addiction. There are some things you can do to help stop this habit, so that you don’t have to suffer.
Eating disorders
Among the most common disorders co-occurring with exercise addiction are eating disorders. Eating disorders disrupt the normal processes of the body and have serious physical and psychological implications. They can affect the self-esteem of individuals, as well as their relationships with others. They can also lead to physical problems and death.
Eating disorders are classified as psychiatric disorders. Eating disorders involve a pattern of self-critical and unrealistic expectations of body appearance. They can develop in adolescents and adults. They have a tendency to be more prevalent in women than men. It is believed that stress and mood disorders are contributing factors. Eating disorders can be life-threatening if left untreated.
Eating disorders can have a negative effect on social relationships. They may also cause depression and anxiety. Some people with eating disorders engage in purging behaviors. They may purge food or dietary supplements. They may also skip meals. They may also engage in hypergymnasia, which involves sessions of intense exercise followed by binge eating.
A person may develop an exercise addiction if he or she has an extreme desire to lose weight or maintain a high level of physical fitness. Exercise releases endorphins, which give the person feelings of relaxation and happiness. However, continuance of the pattern can lead to physical complications and psychological problems.
Co-occurring disorders
Symptoms of exercise addiction are complex and can involve a number of factors. This condition can lead to severe physical and cognitive consequences. It can also have a significant impact on the social and professional life of the affected individual.
While research into the physiology of exercise addiction is still underway, it is clear that the condition is very serious. It can reduce your income, social activities and recreation, and interfere with your education.
Exercise addiction is a disorder that has been associated with substance abuse. However, this association is not universal. In fact, only about 15-20 percent of exercise addicts are addicted to drugs. Other forms of addiction may be present as well.
The most obvious symptoms of exercise addiction are loss of control and an obsession with fitness. These symptoms can be reduced with proper treatment. However, it can be difficult to diagnose and treat exercise addiction without considering the other disorders present.
The best way to diagnose exercise addiction is through a detailed clinical history of the affected individual. This step is essential for assessing causal factors.
The literature on exercise addiction and its co-occurring disorders reveals that people with the condition are at a greater risk of developing other disorders. This is a good thing, as it is important to identify co-occurring disorders in order to treat them properly.
Treatment options
Getting help for exercise addiction is a great way to improve your life. There are many resources and options available to you. Some of them are free, while others may be out of your budget. The best way to find out which treatment options are right for you is to research providers and ask questions.
Getting help for exercise addiction may include outpatient therapy, residential treatment, support groups, or psychotherapy. Your doctor may ask you to keep a journal of your workout routines. You may also be prescribed medications to stabilize your mood. These medications may also be used to help you stay on track with healthier coping mechanisms.
Other forms of treatment include cognitive behavioral therapy. This type of therapy helps you identify the source of your addiction and develop healthier coping mechanisms. The therapy can also help you learn to deal with triggers.
The most important part of treatment is recognizing that you need help. A good place to start is by asking yourself, “Do I really need help?” If you do, you may want to contact providers that stand out.
Getting help for exercise addiction may also involve reducing your exercise habits, avoiding certain exercises, and staying away from substances that are potentially addictive. These may have negative effects on your body and mind.