Types Of Strong Cravings And Addictions

Strong appetite is a relatively new concept that refers to the intense and unstoppable desire to consume a substance (drugs, tobacco, food or alcohol). In the following, we will analyze the different types of strong cravings almost impossible to control.

This concept was first used in the 1940s. At the time, experts defined a strong craving as an intense urge to use opiates, such as heroin or morphine, when a person tries to give them up.

Even today, it is difficult to specifically define this situation. What is clear is that strong cravings are a fundamental aspect of drug addiction and are closely linked to relapse.

In this article, we explain everything you need to know about the main types of strong cravings and their associated addictions.

What is strong appetite?

As we have already mentioned, the strong appetite is the unstoppable desire to consume a certain substance. This desire dominates the affected person. But strong appetite is not the same as withdrawal syndrome.

Withdrawal syndrome includes a series of physical and mental symptoms, which occur when a person no longer consumes a substance on which he is addicted (for example, a drug). Withdrawal is most likely to occur in alcoholics or drug addicts such as heroin.

Types of strong cravings

To differentiate strong cravings from withdrawal syndrome, we must understand that cravings can occur even after a person exceeds the state of withdrawal. This is due to the fact that the desire to consume a substance can remain present for months or even years.

Experts associate strong appetite with many types of substances. Unstoppable cravings range from the urge to smoke or drink alcohol, to the urge to use cocaine or strong opioids, such as heroin, again.

You need to be aware that even though you have been socially accepted, tobacco use can make you addicted for life. In other words, the craving for tobacco is as severe and harmful as that of drugs.

Are there really many types of strong cravings?

Some scientists claim that there are two types of strong cravings. The first type is physical and occurs almost always with withdrawal syndrome. Like this syndrome, cravings produce physical symptoms such as tachycardia, cold sweats and even seizures.

In other words, the first type of strong cravings is the desire to consume the substance, fueled by the symptoms that appeared during withdrawal. This type of strong cravings is usually the most difficult to combat.

The second type is psychological lust. It occurs later, after the person in question overcomes the withdrawal syndrome. This type of craving occurs when the patient has not consumed the substance for a long time, months or maybe even years.

How to control strong cravings

First of all, you need to understand that both addiction and withdrawal syndrome or strong cravings are problems that can be treated. To do this, it is best to turn to a specialist or a psychologist who can help you manage the situation. Even support groups have proven their usefulness.

Strong appetite is one of the aspects with a major impact on the recurrence rate. It is also often the factor that determines the maintenance of addiction. Therefore, it is important to know these aspects and do your best to cope with them successfully.

The idea is to try to avoid situations that are associated with the consumption of the substance in question. For example, if you are an alcoholic, it is best to stay home at night and not walk through bars. In addition, it is important to have tools at hand to control this automatic behavior that urges you to consume the substance.

The patient’s mental or emotional state can also have a significant impact, as it is easier for him to relapse when he is vulnerable or sad.

Most therapies focus on managing stress and increasing self-esteem. Another effective way to control cravings is for the addicted person to focus on other activities, such as exercising or any other hobby.

Conclusion

Strong appetite is the irrational and compelling desire of a person to consume a drug or a substance on which he is addicted. It is important to know that strong cravings do not only occur in the case of powerful drugs such as heroin. Frequent consumption of alcohol or tobacco can in turn cause unstoppable cravings.