Written by: Therapy Near Me Editorial Team

Clinically reviewed by: qualified members of the Therapy Near Me clinical team

Last updated: 14/01/2026

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When people think of addiction, they often picture dependencies on substances such as alcohol, nicotine, or drugs. However, addiction can take many forms, some of which are far less conventional. Unusual addictions, also known as “behavioural addictions,” involve compulsive engagement in activities or consumption of objects that are not traditionally addictive. These behaviours can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, leading to social, physical, and psychological consequences. This article explores various types of unusual addictions, their psychological underpinnings, and the importance of understanding and addressing them within mental health treatment.

Keywords: Unusual addictions, Behavioural addictions, Compulsive behaviours, Pica disorder, Tanning addiction, Exercise addiction, Internet and gaming addiction

Unusual addictions refer to behaviours or habits that an individual compulsively engages in, often to the detriment of their well-being. Unlike substance addictions, these behaviours do not typically involve ingesting chemicals that alter the brain directly, yet they still activate the brain’s reward system and create dependency. Examples of unusual addictions include compulsive behaviours such as eating non-food items (pica), excessive tanning, internet or gaming addiction, and even more rare compulsions, such as consuming soap or engaging in repetitive activities like hair-pulling (trichotillomania).

These addictions often fall under the broader category of behavioural addictions, characterised by repeated, persistent behaviours that are difficult to control and that impair daily functioning (Grant et al. 2010). Researchers are increasingly recognising that behavioural addictions can have similar neurological effects to substance addiction, challenging traditional definitions and expanding our understanding of compulsive behaviours.

Several unusual addictions have been documented and researched, including:

1. Pica (Eating Non-Food Substances)
Pica is an eating disorder characterised by the persistent ingestion of non-food substances such as dirt, chalk, paper, or soap. It is often observed in children, pregnant women, and individuals with certain developmental disorders. While the exact cause is unknown, some researchers suggest nutritional deficiencies or chemical imbalances may trigger cravings for these unusual items (Young 2011).

2. Tanning Addiction
Tanning addiction, or “tanorexia,” involves a compulsion to tan excessively, whether through sun exposure or tanning beds. This addiction is particularly concerning due to the increased risk of skin cancer associated with excessive ultraviolet (UV) exposure. Studies have suggested that tanning can trigger the release of endorphins, which may lead to a “high” and subsequent addiction (Kourosh et al. 2010).

3. Exercise Addiction
Exercise addiction is characterised by an obsessive desire to engage in physical activity, often to the detriment of an individual’s physical and mental health. People with exercise addiction may prioritise workouts over other responsibilities and even continue exercising despite injury. While exercise is generally healthy, excessive exercise can lead to injuries, mental health problems, and a disruption in social and professional life (Griffiths et al. 2011).

4. Trichotillomania (Hair-Pulling Disorder)
Trichotillomania involves a compulsive urge to pull out one’s hair, often resulting in noticeable hair loss. This behaviour typically stems from an inability to resist the impulse to pull hair, with individuals feeling temporary relief or gratification after doing so. The disorder is often linked to stress or anxiety, with trichotillomania serving as a coping mechanism for these emotions (Stein et al. 2010).

5. Internet and Gaming Addiction
The increasing prevalence of technology has led to a rise in internet and gaming addiction. Individuals with this addiction may spend excessive amounts of time online, often neglecting their social relationships, work, or academic responsibilities. Internet and gaming addiction activate the brain’s reward centres in ways similar to other addictive behaviours, making it difficult for individuals to moderate their usage (Weinstein & Lejoyeux 2010).

Unusual addictions often stem from complex psychological and neurological mechanisms, including reward system activation, coping with underlying mental health issues, and reinforcement from the behaviour itself.

1. Dopamine and the Brain’s Reward System
Much like substance addiction, unusual addictions can stimulate the brain’s reward system, releasing dopamine and other neurotransmitters that reinforce the behaviour. Over time, individuals may become dependent on these behaviours to feel pleasure or alleviate stress, creating a cycle of compulsion that is challenging to break (Grant et al. 2010).

2. Coping Mechanism for Underlying Mental Health Issues
Unusual addictions are frequently linked to underlying mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The compulsive behaviours associated with these addictions can provide temporary relief from negative emotions, even if they are ultimately harmful. For example, trichotillomania may provide relief from anxiety, while gaming addiction may allow an escape from real-life stressors (Stein et al. 2010).

3. Social and Environmental Influences
Social and environmental factors also play a role in developing unusual addictions. Peer pressure, cultural influences, and the availability of certain behaviours can increase the likelihood of addiction. For instance, societal emphasis on appearance can contribute to tanning or exercise addiction, while digital accessibility and social media influence can drive internet addiction (Weinstein & Lejoyeux 2010).

The consequences of unusual addictions vary but can significantly impact both physical and mental health:

1. Physical Health Risks
Certain unusual addictions, like tanning or pica, carry significant physical health risks. Tanning addiction, for instance, can lead to skin cancer and premature ageing, while pica can result in digestive issues, poisoning, or internal injuries. Exercise addiction may lead to muscle tears, joint problems, and fatigue, all of which can disrupt an individual’s overall well-being (Kourosh et al. 2010).

2. Mental Health Strain
The cycle of compulsion and temporary relief seen in unusual addictions often exacerbates underlying mental health issues. Feelings of guilt, shame, or frustration may accompany compulsive behaviours, contributing to anxiety and depression. Additionally, these behaviours can lead to social isolation as individuals become preoccupied with their addiction (Grant et al. 2010).

3. Impact on Relationships and Social Life
Unusual addictions often lead to withdrawal from social interactions and responsibilities. Internet or gaming addiction, for example, can result in decreased face-to-face interaction and strained relationships, as individuals neglect their social connections in favour of their addiction (Weinstein & Lejoyeux 2010).

Addressing unusual addictions requires a tailored approach, as these behaviours differ from traditional substance dependencies. Common treatment methods include:

1. Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
CBT is effective for many unusual addictions, as it helps individuals identify and change the thought patterns that drive their compulsive behaviours. CBT may be used to address tanning addiction, trichotillomania, and internet addiction, helping individuals develop healthier coping mechanisms (Stein et al. 2010).

2. Habit Reversal Training (HRT)
For disorders like trichotillomania, Habit Reversal Training (HRT) is commonly used to replace the compulsive behaviour with a healthier one. HRT focuses on awareness training, developing competing responses, and increasing motivation for change (Grant et al. 2010).

3. Medications
In some cases, medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are used to address underlying anxiety or depression that may be driving the addiction. This is particularly common in cases where compulsive behaviours, such as trichotillomania, are linked to mood disorders (Stein et al. 2010).

4. Support Groups and Peer Support
Support groups provide individuals with a space to share their experiences and learn from others facing similar challenges. Peer support can reduce feelings of isolation and provide encouragement for those seeking to manage their unusual addictions (Grant et al. 2010).

Unusual addictions, while less recognised than traditional substance dependencies, can be equally damaging to an individual’s well-being. These compulsive behaviours often stem from complex psychological mechanisms and require targeted treatment to address both the addiction and any underlying mental health issues. Increased awareness and understanding of unusual addictions can help individuals seek help and reduce the stigma surrounding these conditions, ultimately promoting healthier lifestyles and improved mental health.

• Grant, JE, Potenza, MN, Weinstein, A & Gorelick, DA 2010, ‘Introduction to behavioural addictions’, American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse, vol. 36, no. 5, pp. 233-241.
• Griffiths, MD, Szabo, A & Terry, A 2011, ‘The exercise addiction inventory: A new brief screening tool’, Addiction Research & Theory, vol. 19, no. 5, pp. 416-428.
• Kourosh, AS, Harrington, CR & Adinoff, B 2010, ‘Tanning as a behavioural addiction’, American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse, vol. 36, no. 5, pp. 284-290.
• Stein, DJ, Grant, JE & Franklin, ME 2010, ‘Compulsive and impulsive behaviours in obsessive-compulsive and related disorders’, Current Psychiatry Reports, vol. 12, no. 4, pp. 241-250.
• Weinstein, A & Lejoyeux, M 2010, ‘Internet addiction or excessive internet use’, American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse, vol. 36, no. 5, pp. 277-283.
• Young, SL 2011, ‘Pica in pregnancy: A perinatal education

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