Signs of gun addiction
Not everyone believes that gun addiction exists. Some people think that it is possible to passionately love guns and firearms without being addicted.
However, it is important to note that gun addiction is a behavioral addiction that occurs when an individual feels the compulsive and obsessive need to wield a gun and also use it.
Just like other types of behavioral addiction, this love for guns affects the pleasure center of the brain, which makes the person look forward to regular use.
Here are some of the signs that someone is struggling with gun addiction.
Lying about collecting guns
One of the ways to know that a person is addicted to guns is when they keep lying about collecting them. They may become secretive about their gun collection or they may lie about how much they spent getting their favorite firearms.
Collecting firearms to feel better
Another way to spot gun addiction is when the person collects firearms because they want to feel better or relax. For instance, if they are going through stress or any mental health issue, their first line of action is to collect guns to reduce the symptoms of what they are feeling.
Neglecting other important responsibilities
Gun addicts are likely not to pay attention to essential duties in their lives. When they begin to face problems in different aspects of their lives like work, school, etc, because of guns then it means that they are struggling with gun addiction.
Trouble in relationships
A prominent sign of gun addiction is when it begins to affect your relationship with people. If you have fallouts with your family, friends, close acquaintances, etc, because of your love for guns, then you might be addicted already.
Experiencing withdrawal symptoms
Just like other types of behavioral addiction, people who are addicted to guns are likely to experience withdrawal symptoms. Some of these symptoms include anxiety, irritability, depression, mood swings, insomnia, loss of appetite, etc.
If you are experiencing some of these signs, you need to see a counselor or a mental health therapist for help.