A person who feels overly stressed may find ways to escape from the strain by indulging in activities that could become addictive. Addictions can be to a substance - such as to caffeine, drugs, or alcohol - or it could be to a habit, like shopping or overworking. The common factor between these behaviors is a loss of control and a strong
sense of denial.
As the brain becomes more and more adapted to the substance, activity, or behavior, it becomes harder and harder to feel the gratification that was first felt, leading to more compulsive addiction and possibly painful or damaging consequences. This might mean arrest for possession of drugs or the loss of money due to a shopping addiction.
Feeling the pain caused by an addiction is one step toward recognizing the problem. If someone does not recognize the addiction, an intervention by friends or loved ones might be necessary.
Of course, stress does not always lead to an addiction. There are often other factors that put a person at risk of addictions, including genetics. If you feel that you or someone you care about are experiencing the level of stress that could spiral into addictive behaviors, seek out the help of experts.