Do you feel like you are drinking or using drugs more often than you should? Are you struggling to maintain control over your substance use? If so, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), you may be exhibiting signs of addiction.
It’s essential to be aware of the signs that indicate you need addiction treatment. In addition, knowing when to seek help can be the first step toward living a healthier, happier life. This blog post will discuss eight warning signs of addiction and the importance of seeking treatment.
Do I Feel Like I Need to Use It to Feel Normal?
When you depend on a substance to function, it can be challenging to stop using it. This dependency can lead to serious health problems, both mental and physical. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), if you need to drink or do drugs to relax or feel better, it could be a sign that your relationship with substances is becoming unhealthy. It may also be a sign that your coping skills are lacking and that you need help learning how to manage your stress healthily.
If you have noticed any changes in your behavior related to drinking or drug use, it is essential to talk to someone who can help. Seeking professional help is the first step towards taking control of your life and building a healthy relationship with substances.
Have I Developed a Tolerance to Substances?
One of the most common signs that you are developing an addiction is that you must ingest more substances to feel the same effects. This is known as tolerance. When you can no longer experience the same level of satisfaction from the same amount of a substance, your body has become accustomed to it and requires more to produce the desired effect.
Am I Experiencing Withdrawal Symptoms When I Don’t Use It?
One of the most evident signs of addiction is the experience of withdrawal symptoms when you stop using the substance. Withdrawal symptoms can range from mild to severe and include physical, psychological, and emotional symptoms.
Physical withdrawal symptoms can include fatigue, headaches, nausea, sweating, tremors, irritability, and trouble sleeping. Psychological and emotional withdrawal symptoms can include anxiety, depression, cravings for the substance of choice, restlessness, and agitation.
Have I Continued Using Despite Negative Consequences?
When you use drugs or alcohol despite the negative consequences, addiction is a concern. You may be aware of the risks but ignore them and continue drugs or alcohol. This can lead to problems in relationships, jobs, and overall health.
Addiction can make it difficult to acknowledge the harm caused by substance use. Addiction changes how the brain functions and processes information, making it hard to recognize the adverse effects. The urge to keep using can be compelling and override rational thinking.
Do I Feel Like I Am Unable to Control My Use?
One of the telltale signs of addiction is that you no longer have control over your impulses. This means your body craves and desires drugs or alcohol, even if your mind tells you to stop. As a result, you will find yourself unable to resist the urge to use substances, even if you know it is hurting your life. This lack of impulse control can lead to dangerous and potentially life-threatening situations.
Furthermore, this lack of impulse control can lead to other destructive behaviors. For example, during addiction, you may find yourself in a cycle of using and then lying or stealing. You may also engage in risky behaviors, such as driving under the influence, that can put your life and the lives of others in danger.
Have Family or Friends Expressed Concern About My Use?
If your family or friends have expressed concern over your use, you may have an addiction. People close to you can often sense a behavior change. They will be the first to notice if you’re struggling with an addiction. Signs of a family or friend’s concerns could include them asking questions about how much you are drinking or using, limiting access to drugs or alcohol, or commenting on changes in your personality.
If your loved ones have begun expressing concern, listen to their feedback. Considering whether it could indicate a problem and admit if you need help. You can get the support and guidance needed to overcome addiction.
Have My Hobbies or Interests Changed Since I Started Using?
One significant sign of addiction is making changes in your hobbies and interests. If you have begun to lose interest in your favorite activities, this could be a sign of addiction. Similarly, it could be a warning sign if you were once passionate about a particular sport or hobby, but now prefer to spend your time using substances.
Do I Lie About My Use?
Lying about addiction is one of the most common signs that you may be struggling with an addiction. Whether it’s drinking more than you admit or using drugs in secret, the urge to hide your behavior is a red flag. Lying about your use is not only dangerous for your health, but it can also be an indication of a deeper issue.
When you’re lying about your addiction, you know that what you’re doing isn’t okay. You’re trying to make yourself feel better by hiding your behavior, but it will only worsen things in the long run. Not only are you putting yourself at risk for further harm, but your relationships will also suffer.
Finding Freedom From Addiction
If you exhibit one of the signs listed above, it is time to seek treatment. First Steps Recovery welcomes those who have identified their addiction and want to grow into a healthier lifestyle. Long-term sobriety is not just an option. It is a choice. We are here to help you find your happiness again.
We are on a road of rehabilitation, and sobriety is the goal. At First Steps Recovery, we know how addiction can cause a person to become socially isolated. Since we believe everyone can heal fully, we are dedicated to walking beside you along your path. We want you to feel confident and strong in overcoming addiction and its severe effects. Not only will you find healing, but the people in your life will have a new peace. If you are struggling with addiction, know that you are strong enough to overcome it. It all starts with a choice of treatment. To learn more about how we may assist you, call First Steps Recovery at (844) 489-0836.
We are on a road of rehabilitation, and sobriety is the goal. At First Steps Recovery, we know how addiction can cause a person to become socially isolated. Since we believe everyone can heal fully, we are dedicated to walking beside you along your path. We want you to feel confident and strong in overcoming addiction and its severe effects. Not only will you find healing, but the people in your life will have a new peace. If you are struggling with addiction, know that you are strong enough to overcome it. It all starts with a choice of treatment. To learn more about how we may assist you, call First Steps Recovery at (844) 489-0836.
