Recognizing & Treating Process Addictions in Young Adults

Your brain doesn’t know the difference between the dopamine released from drugs and the dopamine released from social media. Read that again. Process addictions have always been relegated to the fringes of behavioral health treatment but they are just prevalent and just as damaging as substance use disorders; especially among young adults. 

When we think of addiction, we usually picture drugs or alcohol. But unlike substance abuse, process addiction in young adults refers to compulsive behaviors that light up the brain’s reward system. These behaviors might seem harmless at first (who doesn’t binge Netflix or engage in a bit of doom-scrolling?), but when they start interfering with daily life, relationships, or emotional well-being—they may point to something more serious.

First Things First - What Is a Process Addiction?

Also known as a behavioral addiction, process addictions happen when a person becomes psychologically dependent on a behavior—be it shopping, gaming, or watching porn—to cope with stress, numb out, or feel good. Pretty much any behavior that a person becomes dependent on to change how they feel. The person gets an immediate dopamine hit while disregarding the potentially negative long-term consequences.

The big differentiator between process addictions and drug or alcohol addictions is that there is no external chemical. But it doesn’t really matter because the brain doesn’t care where the dopamine comes from, just that it keeps coming. 

Young Adults: The Ones Most Vulnerable to Process Addictions

Science tells us that the young adult brain is still developing into the mid-20’s. The prefrontal cortex, that area of the brain responsible for impulse control and decision making, is undergoing constant change during the young adult years. This puts that age demographic especially at risk for behavior addictions.  

Technology is everywhere—and it’s built to keep you hooked. Add onto that the stress and uncertainty about school, relationships, and adulting, and it’s no wonder you have a tendency towards escapism. 

Validation loops (hello, likes and follows) feel like quick fixes for low self-esteem or social anxiety. Digital addiction is normalized. If everyone’s doing it, it’s hard to tell what’s “too much.”

Common Types of Process Addictions in Young Adults

Gambling Addiction

Online gambling and sports betting have seen unprecedented growth over the last few years. Marketed towards younger adults, these apps and websites are leading to increasing rates of gambling addiction. 

Gaming Addiction

Roughly 10% of young adults have a gaming addiction. This excessive time spent online can lead to neglecting school, responsibilities, hygiene, and developing a social life. 

Social Media Addiction

Endless doom scrolling, anxiety when offline, comparing yourself to influencers—it’s not “just a habit.” Social media addiction help for young adults focuses on mindfulness, boundaries, and emotional regulation.

Shopping Addiction

When retail therapy turns into compulsive spending, it can leave you buried in debt and shame. It’s not about stuff—it’s about emotional relief.

Pornography Addiction

Porn addiction treatment for young adults often addresses intimacy issues, self-esteem, and compulsive behavior that interferes with real-life connection and mental health.

Exercise Addiction

Yes, even fitness can become unhealthy when driven by compulsion or used to avoid emotions. Recovery is about finding balance—not perfection.

Why Process Addictions Are Just as Serious as Substance Abuse

Process addictions may not involve drugs or alcohol—but they can change brain chemistry, damage relationships, and derail your future just the same. Behavioral addictions can quickly lead to social isolation, academic failure, financial problems, mental health concerns, and low self-worth. 

The good news? Behavioral addiction treatment for young adults is highly effective—especially when it includes therapy, peer support, and lifestyle changes.

You Don’t Have to Hit Rock Bottom to Get Help

Let’s get this straight: you don’t have to be “addicted enough” to deserve support.

If a behavior is disrupting your peace, your focus, or your sense of self—it matters. You matter. And young adult recovery programs are designed to meet you exactly where you are. Addiction therapy for young adults isn’t just about stopping a behavior—it’s about building a life that doesn’t require constant escape.

It’s About Healing

This isn’t about shame. It’s about awareness. And it’s about knowing that there is a path forward, and you don’t have to walk it alone.

If you or someone you love is struggling, reach out to Attune Health & Wellness today. Healing isn’t just for people with substance issues—it’s for anyone who wants to feel more present, more empowered, and more free.