When we overcome one addiction, we might think the battle is over. However, sometimes we simply trade one addiction for another without realizing it. This is called transfer addiction, and it’s a challenge many people face during recovery. At Golden Gate Recovery, we see this pattern frequently and have developed specialized approaches to help men recognize and address addiction transfer before it takes root.
Transfer addiction can happen to anyone in recovery, regardless of their original addiction. Understanding this phenomenon helps us create more effective, long-lasting recovery plans for our clients. In this article, we’ll explore what transfer addiction is, how it develops, and most importantly, how to prevent it from derailing recovery.
Transfer addiction, also known as addiction transference, cross-addiction, or addiction replacement, occurs when someone in recovery replaces one addiction with another. Instead of fully overcoming the original addiction, the person begins relying on a new substance or behavior to cope with life’s challenges.
This replacement can involve substances like alcohol, prescription medications, or illegal drugs. It can also involve behaviors such as gambling, shopping, exercise, or even addiction in the workplace. The key characteristic is that the new behavior becomes compulsive and starts to negatively impact daily life.
Research from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) suggests that approximately 20-30% of people in recovery may experience some form of addiction transfer. The risk is particularly high during the first year of recovery when coping mechanisms are still developing. Key points about transfer addiction include:
Transfer addiction develops because addiction fundamentally changes how our brain’s reward system works. When we stop using our primary substance or behavior, our brain still craves the dopamine release it once received. This can lead us to seek out new ways to experience pleasure or relief from discomfort. The process typically follows this pattern:
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), several factors increase the risk of developing transfer addiction:
The National Institute on Drug Abuse explains that addiction changes neural pathways in our brain, making us more susceptible to other addictions even after the original substance is no longer used.
Transfer addiction is widespread after bariatric (weight-loss) surgery. When food can no longer be used as a coping mechanism, some people turn to alcohol, shopping, gambling, or other behaviors to fill the emotional void.
A 2021 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that the risk of developing alcohol use disorder increased by 50% following bariatric surgery. This suggests that when one form of comfort (food) becomes unavailable, the brain may seek alternatives.
Common examples of transfer addiction include:
| Original Addiction | Common Transfers | Why It Happens |
|---|---|---|
| Alcohol | Gambling, sex addiction, and food | Similar dopamine response, seeking excitement |
| Opioids | Benzodiazepines, alcohol, and food | Seeking relief from physical/emotional pain |
| Food | Shopping, alcohol, exercise | Looking for alternative comfort or control |
| Work | Exercise, gambling, internet | Seeking achievement or escape |
Recognizing transfer addiction early can help prevent it from becoming as problematic as the original addiction. The signs often appear gradually and may be difficult to identify at first.
These signs mirror those of the original addiction, though they might be subtler at first. The person may also believe they’re “doing better” because they’re no longer engaging in their primary addiction.
Preventing transfer addiction requires awareness and proactive strategies. The good news is that with the right approach, we can significantly reduce the risk.
When transfer addiction does develop, effective treatment is available. The approach is similar to treating the original addiction, but with added focus on the pattern of transfer.
Recovery is about more than just stopping an addictive behavior; it’s about creating a fulfilling life that doesn’t require escape through substances or compulsive behaviors. To minimize the risk of transfer addiction, we can:
Recovery is a lifelong journey, not a destination. By staying vigilant about the risk of transfer addiction and continuing to develop healthy coping skills, we can build a sustainable recovery that addresses our needs in healthy ways.
If you or someone you love is experiencing signs of transfer addiction, reaching out for help is an important first step. At Golden Gate Recovery in Novato, CA, we specialize in helping men address both primary addictions and the transfer addictions that sometimes develop during recovery. Our comprehensive approach focuses on healing the whole person, not just eliminating specific behaviors.
Contact us today to learn more about our programs and how we can support your journey to lasting recovery.
Get confidential help! Call Us Now for:
Golden Gate Recovery is a grass roots organization created by men in long term recovery with a simple mission: to continue strengthening our therapeutic and peer led community toward the goal of long term recovery for each client.
