Alcohol and drug addiction may seem like a private or solitary issue, but it impacts millions of families around the world. If you are struggling with addiction, please know that you have a ton of supporters and resources, and most importantly, you have millions of individuals who have gone through a similar experience—and are here to help. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 19.7 million American adults (aged 12 and older) battled a substance use disorder in 2017. If you are questioning whether or not it is time to get treatment for alcohol or drug abuse, take a look at the information below to better understand when it’s the right time to seek help and support.
Signs of Addiction
Signs of Addiction
According to the (DSM-IV) seven signs of addiction include:
(1) Tolerance, as defined by either of the following:
- (a) A need for markedly increased amounts of the substance to achieve intoxication or desired effect.
- (b) Markedly diminished effect with continued use of the same amount of the substance.
(2) Withdrawal, as manifested by either of the following:
- (a) The characteristic withdrawal syndrome for the substance (refer to Criteria A or B of the criteria sets for withdrawal from specific substances).
- (b) The same (or a closely related) substance is taken to relieve or avoid
- withdrawal symptoms.
(3) The substance is often taken in larger amounts or over a longer period than was intended.
(4) There is a persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control substance use.
(5) A great deal of time is spent in activities necessary to obtain the substance (such as visiting multiple doctors or driving long distances), use the substance (such as chain smoking) or recover from its effects.
(6) Important social, occupational, or recreational activities are given up or reduced because of substance use.
(7) The substance use is continued despite knowledge of having a persistent or recurrent physical or psychological problem that is likely to have been caused or exacerbated by the substance.
Addiction can quickly overwhelm your life before you even realize you need help. If you connect with some of the statements above, take a moment to think about how this addiction is impacting your life. Does it seem as if the addiction is slowly taking over more and more aspects of your day-to-day? You don’t have to be physically addicted to a drug to need help. Many times, problematic substance use shows itself via mental symptoms.
20 signs it may be time to consider going to rehab for drug or alcohol abuse
- Difficulty breaking bad habits
- Lack of control over addictive triggers
- Increasingly negative relationships
- Increased dishonesty
- Difficulty recognizing yourself
- Lack of interests/hobbies
- Lying in order to use drugs/alcohol
- Negative financial impact due to drug/alcohol use
- Overall decrease in positivity/drive
- Difficulty maintaining a job
- Sacrificing time with family or friends in order to use
- Driving while under the influence
- In need of a safe haven
- New group of friends or influencers
- Desire for structure and stability
- More interest in dangerous activities
- Poor memory
- Reduced desire to think long-term or pursue goals/dreams
- Difficulty connecting with friends or family
- Reduction in self-care such as grooming, clothing, cleanliness
Alcohol and drug addictions are difficult for everyone involved— this includes the individuals suffering as well as families, friends, and loved ones. If you know someone who may be struggling with addiction, it may be time to reach out to them and ask if they would consider learning more about treatment. If you are personally struggling with addiction, take a moment to think about the true impact that drugs or alcohol may have on your life. For many individuals who struggle with addiction, inpatient (or outpatient) treatment is the first step towards the road to recovery.
If you are interested in an experiential-based treatment center located in Utah, consider learning more about our services. Here at Wasatch Crest, we understand there are numerous variables that come with treating addiction. Each person is unique and we are here to help with either our 30, 60 or 90 day inpatient treatment programs. We are confident that we have the skills and experience to help any patient create a brighter future. Get in touch with us to learn more about alcohol and drug addiction support, treatment, and recovery in the Wasatch Mountains.
