Any activity, substance, object, or behavior that has become the major focus of a person’s life to the exclusion of other activities, or that has begun to harm the individual or other people is considered an addictive behavior. It is not uncommon for an individual to engage in two or more of these behaviors, including substance use, at the same time or at different times over their life. Some of these behaviors include gambling, sex, spending money, over-or-under-eating, internet use, exercise, excessive religiosity and work.
There is much debate over what is actually an addiction and what is simply compulsive or addictive behavior, but most experts agree that help is needed when compulsive activities begin to compromise, disrupt or destroy one’s life, relationships or vocation.
Council on Compulsive Gambling of PA
Affiliated with the National Council on Problem Gambling, the CCGP’s purpose is to educate and disseminate information on compulsive gambling and to facilitate referrals.
Gamblers Anonymous
A fellowship of men and women who share their experiences, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from a gambling problem
Gam-Anon
A life-saving instrument for the partner, family or close friends of compulsive gamblers
Center for Internet Addiction Recovery
Resources for compulsive internet users, their families and friends, including an online support group and recovery blog
Computer Gaming Addicts Anonymous
If you are struggling with an obsession or compulsion with video games, you can find help here.
Online Gamers Anonymous
An online community whose fellowship includes recovering gamers, family members, loved ones, friends, and concerned others.
Sexaholics Anonymous
The Central PA Sexaholics Anonymous Intergroup holds one meeting in Lancaster County.
Sex Addicts Anonymous
A fellowship of men and women who share their experiences, strength and hope with each other so they may overcome their sexual addiction and help others recover from sexual addiction or dependency
Overeaters Anonymous
A 12-step program of recovery from compulsive eating
Debtors Anonymous
For people who’s compulsive behaviors prevent them from being financially stable
Workaholics Anonymous
A fellowship of individuals who share their experiences with each other that they may solve their common problems and help others to recover from workaholism
Emotions Anonymous
Composed of people who come together for the purpose of working toward recovery from emotional difficulties
Co-Dependents Anonymous
A fellowship of men and women whose common purpose is to develop healthy relationships
Clutterers Anonymous
A fellowship whose primary purpose is to stop cluttering one day at a time and to carry this message of recovery to clutterers who still suffer