Addiction is a compulsive activity, which translates to a sensation triggered by a substance. Some merely enjoy the feeling stimulated by an addiction, whereas others are dominated by their indispensable need to use a particular substance that stimulates the addiction. These substances can be harmful with prolonged use and often manifest in unusual ways. From among several weird addictions, such as the constant urge to work out, go shopping, use smartphones, drink coffee, and eat inedible substances, which one tames, explained below in detail are five unusual such addictions that are pretty common.
Caffeine enema
For most people, their daily cup of Joe is what gets them ready for the day. But for some, their addiction to coffee has motivated them to take it in from the bottom! Similar to an enema, caffeine enema can be done quite easily, and many do this multiple times simply because coffee can be absorbed faster. Doctors may recommend a caffeine enema, as it is an effective colon cleanse. It also acts as a laxative stimulant for healthy bile flow. However, many enjoy the activity so much that they now have a compulsive need to perform a coffee enema.
Tanning
Who would have thought that the pleasurable activity of basking in the sun at the beach can become an addiction? However, science does support these observations as the sun’s UV rays trigger a release of feel-good hormones called endorphins in the body. Endorphins make you happy, which also explains why tanning is such a favorite activity. However, some take it to the next level of addictions and risk blisters, sunburns, and even cancer from overexposure to the sun.
Eating inedible substances
People who suffer from eating disorders eat large quantities of regular food that leads to health complications, such as obesity, diabetes, and cholesterol. Some people have a strange fixation for inedible substances that can also cause bodily harm; for example, eating dirt, soap or laundry detergent, chalk, paint chips, and even drinking urine, are a few of the strange addictions that people are struggling to shake off.
Nasal spray
Nasal sprays are available over the counter, or one can even make it at home with lukewarm water and salt. The saline solution is beneficial for people who suffer from allergies and need the spray to clean out their nasal passage. However, some people are addicted to these types of sprays and use it several times a day. It is difficult to ascertain why these addictions manifest, especially when people know its harmful effects.
Smartphones and social media
In today’s day and age of technology, it was only going to be a matter of time before someone got hooked to their phones so severely that it would become one of the many addictions listed. In fact, for many people, just ignoring their phone for a couple of hours could trigger anxiety and restlessness. It gets worse for people active on social media who feel the constant need to check their phone for every little notification. Classic signs of smartphone addiction include ignoring people around you, never turning it off, responding and expecting replies, and always staying alert to check your phone.