Exercise Addiction Treatment

WHAT IS EXERCISE ADDICTION?

Exercise is a release. It can feel good. In moderation, exercise is a healthy and necessary pursuit but as with all addictions, in excess the ramifications can be damaging and far-ranging.

Exercise can be addictive in the following ways:

Natural painkillers called endorphins are released in the brain upon moderate to heavy exercise. These have a similar effect on the brain as opiates, resulting in euphoria and/or a sense of well-being.
It provides a sense of achievement which releases another chemical in the brain known as dopamine.
Physical fitness or athleticism can become obsessive where the individual constantly strives to beat a competitor or their own personal best.
Body image plays a role as according to certain cultural expectations, individuals may feel pressure to look a certain way. In some cases, this may be to mask shame or insecurity whereby the person feels a compulsion to continually exercise in order to conform.

This addiction can cause harm in any number of ways, from damaged tissue, weakened joints and immune system, and abuse of performance-enhancing or anabolic drugs to eating disorders and damaged relationships.

Exercise addiction can be motivated by many things such as the need to escape, the desire to feel good about oneself or as a coping mechanism for the challenges of life.

It is more difficult to identify than some addictions e.g. substances, as there is no apparent or noticeable intoxication, and as a result, the progression can sometimes be more severe.

Compulsive exercise may also appear less problematic to the sufferer and those that surround them, but the consequences can be equally as destructive.

Get in Touch

We treat all of our clients with the utmost care, dignity and respect. Call now for a totally confidential, no obligation conversation with one of our professionals.

Whether you’re calling for yourself or someone you know, you needn’t suffer alone.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF EXERCISE ADDICTION?

The obsession or compulsion to exercise despite negative consequences is what distinguishes the addict. The need to exercise even when rest is required, while feeling tired, sick or recovering from injury, strained relationships. These are all signs of an excessive abnormal pattern.

Withdrawal is an easily identifiable aspect of this addiction. The inability to exercise (or some interruption resulting in an incomplete workout) can result in rage, panic, apathy, low mood, restlessness and feelings of guilt.

HOW CAN THE CAMINO RECOVERY HELP?

A variety of therapeutic interventions have proven useful in the battle against compulsivity. Although there is no panacea, there are a number of tried and tested techniques which, when used in combination, achieve positive results.

Call us now for a no obligation conversation with one of our experts.

Previous CLIENTS have said

I came to Camino Recovery suffering PTSD. I was in a bad way and I am leaving very content, peaceful and with much more confidence. I am very grateful to all the staff who have helped me throughout my stay at Camino. So helpful in so many ways. Thank you Camino for showing me the light.

Teresa

Camino Recovery changed my life! I was surrounded by darkness and pain before I came here. Their comprehensive programme and incredible staff provided a safe and welcoming environment to get some real work done. I have learnt much about myself and others and gained tools and wisdom that will help carry me forward with light and love on my journey.

Ruth

This week I have been blown away by Camino Recovery and the family programme. The caring and skills demonstrated by the Camino team, and by the dignity, respect and kindness afforded to the clients and all participants.

John - Clients Parent (re: Family Week)

Talk to us

We treat all of our clients with the utmost care, dignity and respect. Call now for a totally confidential, no-obligation conversation with one of our professionals.

Whether you’re calling for yourself or someone you know, you needn’t suffer alone.