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Addictive Non Substance Behaviors C5873007

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

Compulsive behaviors like gambling or shopping that activate brain reward pathways similarly to substances. Can affect anyone, especially those with other addictions or mental health conditions. Treatment includes cognitive behavioral therapy and support groups.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
F99
ICD-11
6A00.0
Body system
psychiatric
Severity
moderate
Chronic
true

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Impulsivity

(psychiatric)

Mood changes or anxiety

(psychiatric)

Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.

Frequency: Common at all stages

Mood instability

(psychiatric)

Preoccupation with behavior

(psychiatric)

Sleep disturbance

(psychiatric)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Behavioral Addictions

CBT helps patients recognize distorted thinking patterns, develop impulse control strategies, and create alternative activities to replace problematic behavioral patterns.

psychological
2

Dietary counseling and physical activity plan

Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.

lifestyle
3

Motivational Interviewing

This client-centered approach enhances motivation for change by exploring ambivalence and helping patients articulate personal reasons for reducing addictive behaviors.

psychological

Additional treatment options

Structured Activity Scheduling

Replacing problematic screen time or gambling activities with structured, meaningful activities helps fill the void left by behavioral addiction while building a recovery-oriented lifestyle.

lifestyle

Behavioral Self-Monitoring and Tracking

Regular tracking of behaviors, triggers, and emotional states helps patients and clinicians identify patterns and measure progress during recovery.

monitoring

Mindfulness and Meditation Practices

Regular mindfulness practice builds present-moment awareness and emotional regulation skills that help interrupt automatic behavioral patterns characteristic of addiction.

complementary

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Addictive Non Substance Behaviors C5873007?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Grant JE, Chamberlain SR, Schreiber LR. Clinical practice guideline for behavioral addictions. Addict Behav. 2022.

guideline2022
2

Potenza MN, Parks K. Non-substance addictive behaviors: Conceptual overview and clinical implications. Curr Opin Psychiatry. 2020.

review2020
3

Fauth-Bühler M, Mann K, Thorens G. Internet gaming disorder and gaming disorder: A meta-analysis. J Behav Addict. 2021.

meta_analysis2021
4

Fineberg NA, Dowd NC, Demetrovics Z. Exploring the dimensional nature of compulsive sexual behavior. CNS Spectr. 2019.

other2019

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Addictive Non Substance Behaviors C5873007. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy