Behavioral addictions

Until a few years ago, only substance-related addictions — such as drugs or alcohol — were considered true dependencies.
Today, behavioral addictions (also known as new addictions) are recognized as well. These involve socially accepted behaviors that can take on a pathological dimension, with a significant impact on a person’s health and overall well-being.
These behaviors become repetitive and excessive, often reflecting deeper emotional or psychological distress.

   

Examples include gambling, online gaming disorder, internet addiction, compulsive shopping, workaholism, excessive exercise, and various forms of affective or sexual dependence.

Effects

Although they may seem less harmful than substance addictions, behavioral addictions develop through similar mechanisms and display comparable characteristics. For example, a person dependent on the internet who is unable to connect may become irritable, anxious, or even depressed, showing a genuine withdrawal syndrome. As with substances, tolerance builds up over time, leading the person to spend increasingly long periods online or engaged in the addictive activity.

Behavioral addictions are harder to diagnose, as there are no clinical tests to confirm them. They also have a strong social component, since those affected can cause economic and emotional harm to people around them.
They represent a public health issue, with a significant cost to the healthcare system, not only because of the need for integrated, multidisciplinary approaches, but also due to the rising number of cases in recent years.
If you are at risk or have an addiction, contact the SerD (addiction treatment). It is free of charge and, if you wish, anonymous.

The SerD is a public service that operates within the Department of Pathological Dependencies and is present in all local health authorities (Asl). Its mission is to prevent, treat, and support the rehabilitation of people who have, or believe they may have, addiction-related problems.
A team of professionals — including doctors, psychologists, sociologists, social workers, educators, and nurses — provides specialized support tailored to individual needs and can design a personalized therapeutic plan. 

 

Access is free of charge and can be made directly during opening hours or by phone appointment. Confidentiality is fully guaranteed, and anonymity can be requested.
Once you contact the service, no intervention is carried out and no information is shared without your consent.
 

The Regional Prevention Plan (PRP) 2021–2025 of Puglia Region includes a specific program dedicated to addictions. It promotes integrated and coordinated strategies among all stakeholders to strengthen personal skills and to prevent and reduce social and family distress.
The document also supports the dissemination of up-to-date knowledge and ensures training and professional development opportunities for those working in the field. For early identification and primary prevention, specific projects are also included in the School and Health Catalogue.