The signs of addiction vary from person to person, however signs and symptoms of substance addition may include:
- Inability to stop taking the substance
- Withdrawal symptoms
- A sudden increase in appetite.
- Insomnia is a common symptom of withdrawal.
- Addiction continues despite health problem awareness
- Social and/or recreational sacrifices
- Maintaining a good supply
- Taking risks
- Obsession
- Secrecy and solitude
- Denial
- Dropping hobbies and activities
- Having stashes
- Taking an initial large dose
- Problems with the law
- Financial difficulties
- Relationship problems
- Excess consumption
Some substance/alcohol abusers who are not technically addicted may also suffer from, or cause some of the descriptions mentioned above, but they do not usually have the withdrawal symptoms of an addict or the same compulsion to consume the substance.
Other signs and symptoms of addiction may include:
- Physical
- Extreme hyperactivity or lethargy
- Changes or deterioration in hygiene and/or physical appearance
- Sudden weight loss or weight gain
- Tremors, sweating or impaired coordination
- Slurred/incoherent speech or repetitive speech patterns
- Bloodshot eyes/dilated pupils
- Excessive sniffing and runny nose
- Nausea and vomiting
Psychological
- Irritability
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Fear or paranoia
- Anger outbursts
- Sudden mood swings
- Inattentiveness
- Social withdrawal
- Changes in persona
- Euphoria
Behavioural
- Increased risk taking and participation in dangerous activities
- Neglecting usual responsibilities
- Reduced participation/missing important engagements
- Prolonged or regular time off work/school
- Secretive or isolating behaviour/activities
- Unusual sleeping patterns
- Financial problems (i.e. always asking for money)
- Relationship/marital problems
- Complaints from coworkers/teachers
- Criminal activity
When should I see a health professional?
You may find it helpful to talk to a health professional if you are finding that your use of a substance is affecting you and your life in ways such as:
- more time and energy is spent thinking or using the substance
- there are problems at work/school/study: absences, poor performance
- physical, medical or mental health problems
- changes in appearance
- changes in behaviour
- relationship problems
- financial problems
- risky behaviours
- social withdrawal
- difficulties with stopping using the substance
If you have any thoughts of self-harm or suicide, contact emergency services immediately.
