When people think about addiction, stereotypes about non-functioning, irrational, and potentially abusive addicts often come to mind. However, the line between addiction and healthy, recreational alcohol use is thin and easy to cross. If you worry your substance use is bordering on problematic but aren’t sure if it’s serious enough to warrant help, these five signs may help add clarity to your situation.
What is Addiction?
Addiction is an extreme substance use disorder (SUD), wherein substance use continues despite evidence that it negatively impacts a person’s quality of life.
Whether you think you might have an addiction or are interested in supporting a loved one with addiction, you should pay attention to the following five signs of addiction:
Hiding Substance Use
Do you consume alcohol in the privacy of your garage where no one is watching? This behavior, and any other that you strive to keep a secret, indicates that you may have a problem.
You are likely hiding your behavior because you know that friends and family may express concern if you were to do it in front of them.
Feeling Out of Control Is a Sign of Addiction
People who have addictions do not feel like they have firm control over their substance use.
Additionally, if you feel like you can quit using the substance cold-turkey, although that’s far from honest, it could be a sign. On the other hand, if you think you can consume large quantities without a problem, it could be an issue.
Increase in Substance Use
Have you noticed that your substance use has increased recently? If you’ve been feeling stressed at work and drinking more to cope, it is indicative of a problem. Likewise, if you drink daily as a way to unwind, it might be time to get help.
Increased use generally indicates an increased need, which is indicative of addiction.
Change in Relationships
People with addictions generally notice that their relationships have become strained. If friends and family members notice addictive behavior, they may confront their loved ones and receive negativity. The person struggling with addiction may also have less time and interest in their relationships.
Change in Activities
Like relationships, people with SUD often have less interest in and energy to engage in the activities they once enjoyed.
Like drugs and alcohol, participating in pleasurable activities increases feel-good hormones in the body. However, substance use has a more immediate effect on the brain than hobbies. As drug and alcohol abuse increases, participation in hobbies decreases.
How to Get Help for Addiction
There are several avenues to getting help if you think you may have an addiction. The most surefire way to get clean is to visit a detoxification and treatment center. These facilities employ highly trained healthcare professionals and can target the underlying causes.
Alternatively, you may try to tackle your addiction on your own. Confide with close friends and family, and contact a therapist. These specialists can help you develop the tools to overcome addiction and get back to living the life you’ve always dreamed of having.
