Module 4: Avoiding

risks and harmful habits

Health-compromising behaviors are the behaviors practiced by people that undermine or harm
their current or future health. It refers as the use of cigarettes, alcohol, and illicit drugs. Many
health conditions are caused by risk behaviors such as problem drinking, substance use, smoking,
reckless driving, overeating, or unprotected sexual intercourse. Fortunately, human beings have,
in principle, control over their conduct. Health-compromising behaviors can be overcome by self
regulatory efforts, and health-enhancing behaviors can be adopted instead, such as nonsmoking,
physical exercise, weight control, preventive nutrition, dental hygiene, condom use, or accident
prevention. Health behavior change refers to the motivational, volitional, and actional processes
of abandoning such health-compromising behaviors in favor of adopting and maintaining health-
enhancing behaviors. It encompasses a variety of social, emotional, and cognitive factors.
 CHARACTERISTICS OF HEALTH-COMPROMISING BEHAVIORS.
• Many health-compromising behaviors are habitual, and several, including smoking, are addictive, making them
very difficult habits to break.
• On the other hand, with proper interventions, even the most intractable health habit can be modified. When a
person succeeds in changing a poor health behavior, often he or she will make other healthy lifestyle changes.

•The end result is that risk declines, and a disease-free middle and old age becomes a possibility. It share several additional
important characteristics.
• First, there is a window of vulnerability in adolescence. Behaviors such as drinking to excess, smoking, using
illicit drugs, practicing unsafe sex, and taking risks that can lead to accidents or early death. All begin in early
adolescence and sometimes cluster together as part of a problem behavior syndrome. Not all health-
compromising behaviors develop during adolescence; obesity, for example, begins early in childhood.
• Many of these behaviors are tied to the peer culture, as children learn from and imitate their peers. Wanting to be
attractive to others becomes very important in adolescence, and this factor is significant in the development
of eating disorders, alcohol consumption, tobacco and drug use, tanning, unsafe sexual encounters, and
vulnerability to injury. Many of these behaviors are pleasurable, enhancing the adolescent’s ability to cope
with stressful situations, and some represent thrill seeking, which can be rewarding in its own right. Each
connects to at least one major cause of death, and several, especially smoking and obesity, are risk factors for
more than one major chronic disease.
1. Third, these behaviors develop gradually, as the person exposes to the behavior, experiments with it,
and later engages in it regularly. As such, many health-compromising behaviors acquires through a
process that makes different interventions important at the different stages of vulnerability,
experimentation, and regular use.
2. Fourth, substance abuse of all kinds, whether cigarettes, food, alcohol, drugs, or health-
compromising sexual behavior. Adolescent’s involvement in risky behaviors often have conflict
with their parents and poor self-control.
3. Finally, problem behaviors, including obesity, smoking, and alcoholism, are more common in the
lower social classes. Practice of these health- compromising behaviors are one reason that social class
is so strongly related to most causes of disease and death.
Recognition of addiction
The Three Cs of Addiction
A simpler way to differentiate a bad habit from an addiction is to use the three Cs: compulsion,
control, and consequences.
1.Compulsion. A person with addiction spends most or all their time around the substance, which
can include talking about it, sharing it, daydreaming about it, or scheduling their days around
using or drinking it.
2.Control. Failing to set a limit on the amount one consumes or engaging in risky behavior that
puts one’s self or others at risk is a sign of addiction. This may also mean a lack of control over
other aspects of life, such as work, familial responsibilities, and romantic relationships.
3.Consequences. If, after continued negative consequences, an individual fails to give up the
habit, it is considered an addiction. The person struggling with addiction may also attempt to deny
or downplay the issues, even when they are apparent.
Types of addictions:
•Substance addiction
•Behavioural addiction
Substance or chemical dependency refers to the process of using, ingesting or consuming
substances with addictive properties, such as drugs and alcohol. The behavioral variation involves
behaviors that become repetitive and compulsive for the sufferer, such as gambling or gaming.
For both types, the person is unable to control or stop themselves in engaging in their addictions
even when it is causing them harm. Regardless of the types, this condition can be devastating and
can adversely affect various aspects of the sufferer’s life, including education, work, relationships,
health etc.
Types of substance addiction
Some of the basic variations of chemical addictions include the following types:
1. Drugs
Although some people recreationally consume certain drugs like cocaine and
cannabis. Others may become seriously addicted to these substances. Drug craving is
“extremely difficult to control, much more difficult than any physical dependence.
For an addict, there is no motivation more powerful than drug craving,” explains the
research. Drugs are powerful substances that can easily lead to dependence and
obsession. As a result, people addicted to drugs lose their willpower and mental
strength to fight their urge for repeated consumption. Drug addiction can not only
affect a person’s mental and physical health, it can also hamper their relationships,
education, career, social reputation and lead to financial instability and poverty.
Some of the most common addictive drugs are: Cocaine,Cannabis, Opioids ( heroin
and morphine),Amphetamines, Methamphetamine etc.
2. Alcohol
As alcohol is a legal substance, it is more easily accessible even though it can be highly addictive
leading to various health issues, both mental and physical. “Alcoholism, also called dependence
on alcohol, is a chronic relapsing disorder that is progressive and has serious detrimental health
outcomes,” explains a 2008 study. Alcohol abuse can cause psychological and physical
dependence making someone drink excessive amounts of alcohol regularly even when they are
aware of the negative consequences. Being a psychoactive substance, alcohol has certain
properties that can cause strong dependence. According to WHO , harmful alcohol use is “a
pattern of psychoactive substance use that is causing damage to health. The damage may be
physical (e.g. hepatitis) or mental (e.g. depressive episodes secondary to heavy alcohol intake).
Harmful use commonly, but not invariably, has adverse social consequences.”
Alcohol use disorder results in 2.5 million deaths yearly across the globe. According to research ,
alcohol addiction is a dynamic and complex process. Continuous and uncontrolled alcohol
consumption results in different neuroadaptive changes in the stress and reward system of our
brain. Alcohol dependence is associated with an allostatic state, where persistent alcohol
consumption constantly challenges the regulatory systems which attempt to maintain balance in
internal processes, but in vain. “In the dependent individual, this allostatic state is fueled by
progressive dysregulation of the brain’s reward and stress systems beyond their normal
homeostatic limits,” adds the research.
3. Prescription drugs
Although prescription medications are generally recommended by doctors for the treatment of
specific conditions like chronic pain or sleep difficulties, some people can become addicted to
painkillers and sleeping pills. People who get addicted to prescription drugs consume the
medications longer than recommended which causes severe and harmful addictions that can be
difficult to control for the sufferer. It has been found that approximately 3% of people in the
United States abuse or misuse medications and face negative outcomes.
4. Caffeine and nicotine
According to a 2013 study, “Caffeine is the most commonly used drug in the world.” Although
caffeine is not necessarily an addictive substance, some people can abuse caffeine, consumed
through coffee or energy drinks, and may get addicted as caffeine releases a small dose of the
neurotransmitter dopamine. When consumed in excessive amounts for a prolonged period of time,
it can affect our health and other important aspects of our life. Although there are some benefits of
caffeine consumption, caffeine overdose can lead to serious negative consequences. According to
a research, caffeine is scientifically not considered as addictive as “users are not compelled to
consume it.” However, withdrawal can lead to certain adverse effects, such as lethargy and
headache. Yet, another study explains that “The majority of addiction professionals believe that
caffeine withdrawal and dependence disorders exist and are clinically important.”
Types of behavioural addiction
1. Gambling
Gambling is one of the most common behavioral addictions across the world. According to a
2010 study, “pathological gambling (PG) has been considered as a behavioral addiction having
similarities with substance use disorders (SUDs).” Not only can the thrill, hope and expectation of
winning the “jackpot” make someone obsessed with gambling, losing money repeatedly can also
make a person more prone to Grambling frequently in the anticipation of winning big. However,
unlike substance dependence, gambling can be easily hidden from loved ones as there are no
specific physical health symptoms. As a result, this can lead to some serious financial difficulties
for the family and can cause relationship problems. People who are addicted to gambling may run
into debts, lie, steal or engage in other criminal activities to get money for gambling.
2. Food
Food addiction, also known as eating disorders, can be seriously harmful for someone’s physical
and mental health, leading to disorders like anorexia nervosa & bulimia nervosa. This can involve
an irrational & unhealthy attitude towards eating. “Food addiction has been implicated in craving,
bingeing, and obesity,” explains a 2009 study. While some people may eat constantly, others may
avoid food altogether. Eating disorders can involve bulimia, anorexia, emotional eating and
compulsive overeating or binge eating. Certain foods items high in starch, fat and sugar can
trigger eating disorders due to their flavor, although they may not be addictive.
3. Gaming
Video game addiction or internet gaming disorder refers to the uncontrolled use of digital games
which can cause various impairments in life. According to a 2019 study , “Internet gaming
disorder is characterized by a severely reduced control over gaming, resulting in an increasing
gaming time and leading to negative consequences in many aspects of the individual life:
personal, family, social, occupational and other relevant areas of functioning.” Gaming disorder
has become a serious issue for numerous parents globally as mostly children and adolescents are
addicted to video games. Individuals with gaming disorder participate in gaming for prolonged
periods of time, almost daily. They avoid their regular duties, responsibilities and other interests.
Moreover, it can make people, mostly, teenagers, socially withdrawn & isolated. It can also affect
their education, lifestyle, health, sleep, diet, personal hygiene and overall development.
4. Sex
Compulsive sexual behavior is marked by a loss of control over sexual behavior, thoughts,
impulses and urges. Sex addiction can negatively affect a person’s ability to function in daily life,
hold a job and have healthy relationships. Also known as hypersexual disorder, it is “a common
disorder featuring repetitive, intrusive and distressing sexual thoughts, urges and behaviors that
negatively affect many aspects of an individual’s life,” explains a 2015 study, . Although it is not
identified by the DSM-5 as a mental health condition, it is still analyzed in psychology. People
addicted to sex compulsively feel the need to be stimulated sexually. However, it should be noted
that this particular disorder is separate from bestiality and pedophilia.
5. Technology
With advancing technology and easier access, more and more people nowadays are becoming addicted
to smartphones, social media or the internet. “Internet Addiction Disorder (IAD) ruins lives by causing
neurological complications, psychological disturbances, and social problems,” explains a 2012 study.
Due to instant internet accessibility, almost all of us are hooked to our phones, whether we are
checking the time, emails, social media profiles or making important calls. Although a computer, tablet
or smartphone can be highly productive, it can be hugely addictive as well. Compulsive and constant
use of technology can impair our education, work, social life, health and relationships. Being addicted
to smartphones can cause a psychological condition known as nomophobia(NO Mobile Phone Phobia),
where the person develops an intense fear of being away from their phones. Smartphone addiction can
also cause phantom vibration syndrome, also known as phantom ringing syndrome, which makes the
addicted person believe that their phone is vibrating or ringing even when it’s not, causing anxiety.
6. Social Media
Research shows that around 10% of individuals in the United States are addicted to social media.
Problematic social media use is a serious cause for concern around the world as it can lead to a
number of mental health issues, such as anxiety, stress, depression and even suicidal ideation.
Although most people use social media to share important moments from their lives and to
connect with loved ones, it has now become a popular pastime, especially among children,
teenagers, young & middle-aged adults. It is a damaging behavioral addiction that can affect how
our brain functions and influence different aspects of our lives, like education, work, relationships
etc. Although most people using social media may not become addicted, most of us tend to use it
compulsively without even realizing it. Social media use increases the release of the
neurotransmitter dopamine which is related to happiness and pleasure. Hence, using social media
can appear rewarding especially when you receive positive reactions on a post. This can soon turn
into an addiction and become problematic.
7. Shopping
Compulsive shopping or compulsive buying disorder is commonly observed more in women than men.
Although not officially identified by the American Psychiatric Association (APA), shopping addiction
can be a debilitating condition that can affect relationships, mental health and lead to financial
problems. However, according to a 2017 study, compulsive buying “refers to a tendency toward long-
term, repeated buying behavior, which has become the individual’s primary response to negative
events and emotions. Many researchers regard CB as a behavioral addiction.” People addicted to
shopping, whether online or through physical stores, typically tend to be addicted to particular
products like clothes, jewelry or beauty products regardless of need. However, they may also
compulsively buy other products like stocks, food or real estate. Addicted individuals are unable to
stop their urge for shopping even when it leads to mounting debts or the end of relationships. Although
it may be a thrilling experience initially, the addiction can lead to severe stress, anxiety and trauma in
the later stages.
8. Cosmetic surgery
Research reveals that around “21 million surgical and nonsurgical cosmetic procedures were
performed worldwide, including 15.9 million in the United States,” in 2015. Plastic surgery
addiction is regarded as a behavioral disorder as it makes someone feel compelled to repeatedly
alter their physical appearance through cosmetic surgery. It is typically observed in people with
body dysmorphic disorder , a mental health condition that makes sufferers constantly focus on
their perceived flaws & defects in their appearance. People can often become obsessed with
plastic surgery resulting in severe financial burdens and debts. Driven by their insecurity and
negative self-perception, people feel compelled to fix one flaw after another and attend multiple
procedures, even if they can’t afford it. Some individuals may even try to change their appearance
to look more like their favorite celebrity or idol.
9. Exercise
Although exercise can help someone get over other addictions, exercise itself can become an
addiction. A 2013 study states “Exercise dependence is defined as a craving for physical activity
that leads to extreme exercise intensity and generates physiological and psychological
symptoms.” It refers to an unhealthy and abnormal obsession with fitness and physical activity.
Mostly driven by eating disorders and body image disorders, people addicted to exercise can
exhibit symptoms similar to addicted to drugs. As regular exercise can release particular brain
chemicals resulting in a sense of reward or pleasure, a person may become dependent on such
pleasure response.
10. Work
Research shows that about 5-10% of the general populace are addicted to work. This form of
addiction is separate from being dedicated to work or being a passionate worker. Identified as
workaholics, these individuals are obsessed with their work and are unable to detach from their
professional lives. They overwork repeatedly and are unable to take breaks from their work.
Common signs may include working late when not required, strong fear of failure, obsessed with
success, worried about work performance, isolation and sleep difficulties. Workaholics experience
a “high” by working excessively, similar to drug addicts. Due to this sense of pleasure, they
repeatedly engage in such behavior and are unable to stop. Mostly observed in perfectionists,
such behavior is often driven by their need for success, admiration, social status and to avoid
emotional stress. However, this can seriously affect their physical & mental health, relationships
and personal life.
 Influencing factors for
addictions/addictive behaviours
1.Your family history – one of the very first factors that can contribute to your addiction is your family history. According to studies, genetics
play a big role in molding the addiction of a person. In fact, about 40-60% of your genes are a contributing factor to your addictions. If you
have a parent who has an addiction then chances are, you might develop another form of addiction without even knowing that your family
history is a big reason why you became an addict.

2.Your home setting or family life – whatever happens in a person’s home, makes them the person that they are. If you have a healthy, loving
home environment, then there’s little chance that you will be an addict. For those individuals who are not as lucky, family members and
authority figures in the family that are users can play a big role in whether or not the person develops addictive behaviors. This kind of home
can cause future generations to develop a substance use disorder.

3.Your circle of friends and peer pressure – there are people who have no addictions whatsoever. In fact, their family life can be great, but
peers can contribute to addiction especially they are in a less than desirable crowd. Children and teenagers who suffer from peer pressure are
most likely going to develop an addiction, especially if they are struggling to fit in socially. Sometimes it’s peer pressure and the urge to fit in
that drives these people to addiction.

4.High levels of stress – some people can be put under a lot of stress in life. Some may come out okay, but not everyone feels everyone does.
Although it is rare to find a person who became an addict due to stress, it does happen. People who are often exposed to or have high levels of
stress are more prone to taking substances like alcohol or marijuana to help reduce it. When a person becomes reliant on those substances to
rid themselves of stress, they’ll start to rely on them in order to cope with stress anytime they get it.
1.Due to curiosity – some people, most often teenagers, will try a substance just once in order to say that they have
tried it. Keep in mind that decision-making skills are still developing during the teenage years and once it is
altered, it could cause a higher risk of developing addictive behaviors in the future.
2.It helps relieve stress or elevate moods – depression, anxiety, and stress are often experienced by a lot of people
these days and they can lead a person to addiction quite quickly. People who have poor coping mechanisms are
more likely to turn to substance abuse when they feel under pressure. Stressful situations encourage these people to
find ways of dealing with them and can often lead to disastrous coping skills.
3.Because it makes them feel good – if you ask an addict as to why they do drugs or drink alcohol, they may
simply tell you that it makes them “feel good”. Substances cause a person to feel numb and euphoric, something
they believe they could not feel without using. The euphoric state that makes them feel relaxed numb to worldly
consequences/events can be highly desirable to people that want to “escape”. Most drugs are stimulants and can,
therefore, make a person feel good even if they are at their lowest points in life.
4.Helps in enhancing their performance – if you are involved in sports, academics and other forms of
performance, the stress levels can be immense. The pressure can be overwhelming at times for athletes, students, or
even people working at high-risk jobs. Enhancers and stimulants become something relied on by these kinds of
people. However, while these are helpful in short terms, using them over and over again can cause a bigger
problem in the future and could even affect your entire performance in general.
Difference between addictive and non
addictive people in the society
Non addictive person:
1. Good mental and physical health
Disturbed sleep and poor food habits
2. Having control
3. Good performance at work
4. No disturbance in sleep and food habits
5. Healthy weight
6. Healthy relationships
Addictive person:
1. Poor physical, emotional and mental health
2. Low interest, concentration level
3. Poor performance
4. Sadist
5. Disturbed sleep and unhealthy food habits
6. Unhealthy relations
Health hazards from addictions:
Cardiovascular Disease
The consequences of drug addiction can range from an irregular heart rate to a heart attack.
Injection drug use can result in cardiovascular complications such as collapsed veins, bacterial blood vessels, and heart
valves
Cancer
Cigarette smoking has been linked to mouth, neck, stomach, and lung cancers.

Moderate to heavy alcohol consumption has been linked to various types of head and neck cancer, as well as esophageal
cancer.
gastrointestinal Disease
Many drugs cause nausea and vomiting after they are consumed. Cocaine use causes abdominal pain and the decay of
bowel tissue.
Mental Health Disorders
Drug use and other forms of mental illness frequently coexist.
Mental health issues like schizophrenia, depression, paranoia, or anxiety may precede addiction in
some cases.
In other cases, drug use may precipitate or worsen those mental health conditions, particularly in
people who are predisposed to them. Some people suffering from disorders such as anxiety or
depression may turn to drugs to alleviate their psychiatric symptoms.
However, detoxifying the body can be the only cure for drug-induced mental health problems.
THANK YOU