Recognizing Addiction

When it comes to addiction, your gut feeling is probably right.   Although it may be clear to everyone else, it is sometimes difficult for addicts to recognize that they have a problem with a substance or behavior, and even more difficult for them to accept that they are out of control and need help.  Those who suspect addictive behavior may be surprised to discover that such signs often indicate that the addiction is in a more advanced stage; addicts become quite good at hiding their problem – out of embarrassment, fear, or guilt – and if you have started to notice, they have started to get sloppy.

There are a number of behavioral signs of addiction that appear in the majority of cases.  Addicts will be defensive if the topic of their use or behavior arises and will likely deny having a problem; they will become progressively more obsessed with obtaining the substance or engaging in the behavior even despite negative repercussions (damaged relationships, job loss) for doing so.  They may be willing to engage in risky behaviors (crime, unprotected sex), and they may use guilt or any other means available to them to manipulate others in their lives into enabling their addiction.

To determine whether you or someone you know has an addiction, please use the links below.