$Unique_ID{BRK01477}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Addiction To Running}
$Subject{running addiction social community problems exercise sports
personality changes work outs sleep disturbances anxiety muscle twitching
irritability nervousness guilt behavior behaviors problem lifestyle lifestyles
addicted exercises change out insomnia anxieties twitch irritable nervous
guilty}
$Volume{Q-23}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Addiction To Running


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QUESTION:  I can't believe it, but a wonderful, caring (if fat) husband has
changed his personality since he took up running.  His doctor felt that he
needed a good exercise program to help with his overweight problem, but this
is ridiculous.  All he thinks about is running, and he no longer seems to care
about anything else.  Is this a condition you know something about, and what
in the world can I do stop it?

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ANSWER:  Experts in Sports Medicine have seen this condition, a type of
addiction to running which becomes the principle concern of these individuals.
They do show personality changes, often becoming less concerned with family
and work, completely taken up with the importance of "feeling good" that comes
with their runs.  Just as in a chemical addiction, they develop a tolerance to
their work outs, and need more and more time to gain the lift they desire.
Soon they can be running just to avoid feeling bad.  When they stop they even
may experience withdrawal symptoms that can include sleep disturbances,
anxiety, muscle twitching, irritability, nervousness and feelings of guilt.
Such experiences may be enough to drive them back to their excessive exercise
routine.  While there may be no simple method to bring this to a halt, it
starts with you confronting your husband, perhaps with the help of a
professional, and then developing a treatment plan that includes group and
personal therapy.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.