Positive, Negative, And Neutral Addictions

There are 3 forms of addiction:  positive, negative, and neutral.  Each form affects a person's life in some fashion.  Whether the addiction has a positive, negative, or neutral affect is up to a person's perception and reaction to performing the addictive activity.  If the activity helps the individual or other people then its positive.  If it hurts the person or other people (physically, mentally, financially, etc.) then the activity is negative.  A neutral addiction has neither positive nor negative impacts to the individual or others around the individual.

A few types of positive addictions are reading, exercise and healthy eating.  There are fewer forms of positive addiction than any other form of addiction.  A positive addiction can turn negative and can synonymously be considered an obsession in some people's eyes.  However there is a thin line between obsession and dedication.  One person's definition of obsession could be considered dedication to another person.

Negative addiction comes in the most broad and varying forms.  Alcohol, drug, eating and gambling addictions are the most common forms.  These addictions have an adverse affect on a person's family, social and financial life.  While some people can break these addictions alone, most people need help through support groups, rehab centers, and interventions.

A neutral addiction is an activity like lawn mowing or car repair.  While these addictions are closer to hobbies than addictions they can have either positive or negative influence on the most important aspects of a person's life.  A person may or may not want to perform the addictive activity but feels the activity must be done in order to maintain balance in life.  On some occasions, a neutral addiction can be closely compared to an obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Step back and identify your addictive actions and activities.  Determine if they are positively or negatively affecting your life or other people's lives.  Take the time to talk to others about your addictions; having another person's perspective will help you make sense of your addictions.  Finally, determine the best method of treatment if needed.