Beyond substance abuse

Public discussion on addiction often focuses on substances, while behavioural addictions, such as compulsive phone use, gambling, excessive social media usage, etc., are dismissed as mere lack of self-control. Research in psychology suggests other-wise. These behaviours hijack the brain’s reward system and often function as coping mechanisms for stress, loneliness, boredom and low self-worth. Recovery, therefore, is not driven by shame or willpower alone, but by replacing all unhealthy sources of gratification with healthier ones, like, for instance, meaning, structure and purpose. As mental health challenges rise in Pakistan, recognising behavioural addiction as a full-scale psychological issue rather than a moral flaw may lead to more effective responses.

AURAN AWAN

ISLAMABAD