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Insights by Jeremy Goshorn – Assistant Professor of Psychology, Â鶹Æƽâ

As stress, burnout, and emotional exhaustion continue to affect people across all age groups, mental health professionals are seeing increased concern about self-medication—the use of substances or behaviors to manage difficult emotions and life challenges.

While many people associate self-medication with alcohol or drugs, the reality is often much broader. According to Jeremy Goshorn, Assistant Professor of Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Â鶹Æƽâ, people may turn to behaviors such as emotional eating, excessive social media use, overworking, gambling, video games, or excessive exercise in an effort to find relief from anxiety, loneliness, depression, trauma, chronic stress, or boredom.

These coping mechanisms often provide immediate relief, which helps explain their appeal. However, while they may temporarily reduce emotional discomfort, they often fail to address the underlying causes of stress and can create additional challenges.

“The short answer is because they provide immediate short-term relief,” Goshorn said. “We are wired to seek immediate relief, which substances or behaviors can provide.”

Goshorn explained that people are naturally inclined to avoid pain and seek comfort, particularly during periods of stress or emotional distress. Whether it’s reaching for a drink after a difficult day, scrolling through social media to avoid boredom, or turning to comfort food during a stressful week, these behaviors can provide a quick sense of relief. The problem, he said, is that the negative consequences are often delayed, making them easier to overlook in the moment.

Goshorn points to a culture of chronic urgency in which many people feel pressured to remain constantly available.

Modern life may be contributing to the growing reliance on unhealthy coping habits. Financial pressures, economic uncertainty, demanding schedules, and constant connectivity through technology can leave people feeling overwhelmed and emotionally drained. Smartphones and social media provide endless opportunities for distraction, but they can also make it difficult to disconnect and recharge.

“We are always ‘on,’ which prevents our nervous system from returning to a baseline,” he said.

Over time, persistent stress can increase the likelihood of seeking quick forms of relief rather than healthier coping strategies.

To counter these pressures, experts emphasize the importance of holistic wellness. Consistent sleep, predictable routines, regular exercise, and meaningful social connections all support emotional health. Research has shown that sleep and physical activity can help regulate mood and reduce stress, while strong relationships provide important emotional support during difficult times.

Social connection may be especially important at a time when public health experts have raised concerns about growing levels of loneliness and isolation. While digital interactions can help people stay connected, they are not always a substitute for meaningful, face-to-face relationships.

“In my opinion, we are in the middle of a loneliness epidemic,” Goshorn said. “Humans are social beings. We are wired to desire and need attachment and connection with others.”

Recognizing when additional support is needed is another key part of maintaining emotional wellness. Significant changes in behavior, increased isolation, difficulty managing daily responsibilities, emotional withdrawal, or growing dependence on a substance or behavior may indicate that professional help could be beneficial.

Because these changes often develop gradually, individuals may not recognize them in themselves. Mental health professionals can help determine whether someone is experiencing a temporary challenge or facing concerns that require additional support.

“We all need to seek help from others at various points in our lives,” Goshorn said.

Despite increasing awareness of mental health concerns, stigma remains a barrier for many people seeking support. Some individuals worry that counseling is only for people experiencing severe crises or that asking for help is a sign of weakness. In reality, mental health professionals say counseling can benefit anyone seeking healthier ways to manage stress, improve coping skills, and enhance overall well-being.

“Anyone, regardless of presentation or level of concern, can benefit from counseling,” Goshorn said.

Friends and family members can also play an important role by approaching loved ones with empathy and concern rather than judgment. Offering practical support and encouraging professional help can make it easier for someone to take the first step toward healthier coping strategies.

When discussing concerns with a loved one, Goshorn encourages people to lead with understanding rather than criticism.

“You should lead any conversation with compassion and curiosity, not judgment,” he said.

Ultimately, self-medication is often less about the behavior itself and more about the unmet need beneath it. By prioritizing wellness, strengthening social connections, and seeking support when needed, individuals can develop healthier ways to navigate life’s challenges and protect their long-term emotional health.

Clinical Mental Health Counseling at LVC

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