Is there a link between disposable packaging and gambling? They are seemingly incompatible. But… both lead to quick gratification and severe addictions.
A brief review shows that addiction is a chronic condition characterized by compulsive seeking and use of a substance or repetitive behavior despite harmful consequences. It affects the brain, behaviour and many aspects of a person’s life. When classifying addictions, they basically divide them into two: chemical (substance addictions) and behavioural (non-chemical).
Scratching lottery tickets is classified as a behavioural addiction. In these addictions, a person develops compulsive and uncontrollable behaviour that leads to negative consequences, even though it does not involve substance intake. In fact, with disposable containers there is also substance intake. This is the content of the drink. Some of these drinks are classified as leading to chemical dependencies. But let’s go back to the packaging. Its very use leads to behavioral dependence.
With scratch-off lottery tickets, behavioral dependence is characterized by an overwhelming desire to gamble that persists despite negative consequences (financial loss, relationship problems, loss of job, etc.).
Prolonged use of disposable cups leads to environmental pollution followed by harm to human health. It also leads to a waste of resources, followed by direct financial damage. However, as with gambling, people experience anxiety or irritability when someone tries to take away their disposable packaging. To show them that they are “not on the right track”.
As with any addiction, this one starts out somewhat innocuously. Someone else (a ‘dealer’) suggests we give it a try. Mornings in the café. Amazingly convenient! You consume and throw! In the beginning it is for the convenience of the ‘dealer’ himself. He doesn’t have to wash the old porcelain cups. He just throws away the full garbage bags at the end of the work day. Then the virtual world tells us the story of modern man. The disposable ‘cardboard cup’ is in step with the new rhythm of life. Everything is in high gear. Competition will take you away while you deal with the annoying utensils. Then we become important! It’s another thing to stroll down Main with a branded glass of an expensive beverage. We’ll demonstrate status. At the end of the day, we’re already dependent. We’re buying takeout. And all in disposable packaging. Then, in a familiar pattern – into the garbage bag and into the dumpster. At the end of the day, we draw the line: ‘it was very easy like that’. Snap! The addiction trap has closed. And so, day after day, we want the same thing again and again. Imperceptibly we increase the dose.
Life is good! And we don’t understand why this sometimes leads to conflicts with loved ones, colleagues or family friends. Why some ‘green’ constantly tries to instill guilt in you.
Then unexpectedly we watch a film on TV or in the Tube about rampant landfills, huge amounts of waste, disturbing pictures. Anxiety overwhelms you. You feel powerless to change the future… You feel you have no control over your life. Depression!
Relax, there is a way out! The first step is to admit to yourself, I AM ADDICTED TO ONE-PACKAGES!
