Can You Become Addicted to Massage?

When it comes to massage, it’s common to think of it as a relaxing and therapeutic experience. But what many don’t realize is that massage can be addictive. In this guide, we’ll explore the phenomenon of massage addiction, what causes it, and how to identify it.

What is Massage Addiction?

The term “massage addiction” is used to describe a person’s need for frequent and intense massage sessions. People who become addicted to a massage may find themselves unable to go without it for even a few days. It’s not a medically recognized condition, but it can still be disruptive to people’s lives.

Signs and Symptoms of Massage Addiction

There are a few signs that may indicate a person is addicted to massage. Here are a few of the most common:

• Obsessive thoughts about massage

• Increased irritability when unable to get a massage

• Becoming withdrawn from friends and family to prioritize massage

• Feeling a need to increase the intensity and duration of massage sessions

• Spending a lot of money on massage

• Making excuses to get out of social commitments in order to get a massage

• Becoming dependent on massage as a form of relief

• Feeling like you need to keep getting massages to maintain physical and emotional wellbeing

What Causes Massage Addiction?

There are a few potential causes of massage addiction. Here are a few of the most common:

Mental Health Issues: Massage may provide relief from anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. This can lead to the person becoming dependent on massage as a way to manage their mental health symptoms^[1].

Physical Problems: Massage can help provide relief from physical pain and discomfort. This can lead to a person becoming dependent on massage as a way to manage their physical symptoms.

Addiction to Relaxation: Massage can be incredibly relaxing, which can lead to a person becoming addicted to the feeling of relaxation that it provides.

Stress Relief: Massage can provide relief from stress. This can lead to a person becoming dependent on massage as a way to manage their stress.

Need for Approval: Some people may become addicted to massage as a way to seek validation and approval from massage therapists.

Poor Self-Image: People with low self-esteem may become addicted to massage as a way to boost their self-image.

How to Identify Massage Addiction?

If you’re concerned that you or a loved one may be addicted to massage, there are a few signs to look out for. These include:

• Feeling like you need to get a massage several times a week.

• Obsessively thinking about getting a massage.

• Spending a lot of money on a massage.

• Becoming irritable when unable to get a massage.

• Making excuses to get out of social commitments in order to get a massage.

• Feeling like you need to keep getting massages to maintain physical and emotional well-being.

• Becoming dependent on massage as a form of relief.

The Dangers of Massage Addiction

Although massage addiction may seem benign, it can actually be quite dangerous. When someone is addicted to massage, they may become so dependent on it that they neglect other important aspects of their life.

They may also be at risk of overusing massage and developing physical pain or injury. Additionally, massage addiction can cause financial strain, as massage can be quite expensive.

How to Treat Massage Addiction?

If you or a loved one is suffering from massage addiction, there are a few treatments that may be helpful. These include:

Counseling: Talking to a trained professional can help identify the underlying cause of the addiction and develop coping strategies to manage it.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: This therapy can help identify and change unhealthy thought patterns that lead to addictive behavior.

Exercise: Exercise can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can help to manage massage addiction.

Self-Care: Engaging in activities that promote self-care, such as meditation and yoga, can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can help to manage massage addiction.

Conclusion

Massage can be a great way to relax and unwind, but it can be addictive for some people. If you or someone you know is struggling with massage addiction, there are treatments that can help. If you’re concerned about your own massage habits, it’s important to speak to a trained professional for help.