Tattoo Addiction: Can You Really Get Addicted to Ink?
Published:
Sep 13, 2024
,
08:14 p.m.
ET
Tattoos can be a fun way to express your individuality. You might be curious about getting a new tattoo. Or, you could be one of those who can't get enough.
Tattoo lovers can get addicted to getting inked. This can lead to a tattoo addiction. This complex psychological condition is a result of the emotions that tattoos incite. They can be addicting due to the dopamine levels released during the tattoo process.
It creates a rush that some individuals might find appealing. It's similar to the feelings that adrenaline junkies get from extreme adventures. This guide will explain tattoo addiction and treatment options.
Is Tattoo Addiction real? Can it be diagnosed?
Tattoo addiction is another name for body modification disorder. However, tattoo addiction hasn't been recognized as a medical diagnosis and isn't listed in the DSM-5, according to Psychology Today. Regardless, individuals might struggle with obsessive thoughts and impulses involving tattooing.
Tattoo addiction is similar to other behavioral addictions in that it involves compulsive thoughts and behaviors. The individual might struggle with the urge to cut back or stop. In most cases, feelings of guilt or shame can accompany each new tattoo. The individual will get another tattoo to chase the positive feelings they lost.
Why do some people continue to get more and more tattoos?
There are various reasons why people get so many tattoos. Common reasons include self-expression, self-esteem, attention, or rebellion. Some individuals might get tattoos because of drunken impulsiveness or sexual motivation. Tattoos can be a way to make a statement or to defy what's considered attractive.
It's no longer taboo to get tattoos. For instance, an individual can't be rejected for a job if they have a full tattoo sleeve. Because of this, tattoos have become more mainstream. The rush an individual gets from getting tattooed can cause them to get more later. They might also enjoy the attention they get from having tattoos, leading them to get more.
Warning signs of tattoos becoming a problem
Like most behavioral addictions, there are warning signs and symptoms to look out for in individuals who are addicted to tattoos or other body modifications. This can manifest into a psychological problem in which the individual goes to extremes to change their appearance. Some of the most common signs might include:
An increased desire for more tattoos
Financial problems and unpaid bills as a result of spending money on tattoos
Missing work and other obligations due to getting tattoos
Consistently planning or obsessing about future tattoo plans
Allowing work and other responsibilities to suffer as a result of tattoo addiction
Treatment for tattoo addiction
Tattoo addiction is treated like other behavioral addictions. It involves a comprehensive treatment plan that includes psychotherapy, medication, and support groups. Psychotherapy could involve individual counseling or family therapy. The latter is necessary for individuals whose tattoo addiction negatively influences their relationships.
The most common form of individual counseling is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). During treatment, the individual uncovers the negative beliefs and triggers that caused their addiction. They will then rewire their brains and learn new coping methods.
Medications might be prescribed to treat co-occurring mental health disorders, such as anxiety or depression. Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medication can help reduce symptoms associated with the addiction. Support groups can help individuals who experience similar challenges while providing encouragement and motivation.
These groups can also reduce feelings of isolation and offer encouragement. Some support groups are based on the 12-step program of Alcoholics Anonymous. Birches Health now has support groups as part of its virtual treatment.
Virtual therapy allows individuals to get the mental health care they need at home. They don't have to worry about going to a doctor's office. They can immediately receive treatment and support via phone, chat, or video. Birches has licensed clinicians who specialize in various behavioral addictions. The recovery process starts with a self-assessment.
Here are some ways to get started with Birches Health:
You can also speak to the team at 833-483-3838 or email hello@bircheshealth.com to connect with Birches Health today.
Sources:
"Tattoo Addiction" | Psychology Today
The Psychology of Body Modification | Painful Pleasures Community
Why Do People Get Tattoos? This is What Studies Say - News18
