7 Common Signs and Symptoms of Addiction

7 Common Signs and Symptoms of Addiction

It is often said that addiction is just as difficult for the loved ones, as it is for the actual addict. They stay by the sufferers side watching them slowly kill themselves, despite the emotional, and sometimes physical abuse. But, with some simple education and knowledge, friends and family may actually be able to spot an addiction before it has chance to develop into something serious.

You’re probably thinking you’re not a mind reader, nor a medical professional, right? Well, you don’t need to be, and we’re going to provide you with 7 of the most common signs and symptoms of addiction. This way, you’ll be able to take proactive measures and help that person steer clear of full blown addiction.

Anyway, here they are…

Increased Tolerance

You may notice that the person has a much larger tolerance to a substance than they used to have. For instance, they may be able to drink much bigger quantities of alcohol without experiencing the short-term effects. That’s because addiction can cause tolerance to increase, whereby they need more to acquire the same high.

Physical Dependence

Those with addictions tend to react badly if they don’t have the substance that they depend on. So, they may feel incredibly under the weather, or they may not be able to function like they normally do. The reason for this is that they adapt to the feeling of being under the influence of the substance, and when they don’t have it, their body doesn’t respond well.

Strong Cravings

If you notice any worrying signs, such as the individual desperately seeking the substance more and more, then they may have an addiction. If left untreated, their cravings will only grow strong and stronger as the addiction develops. So, it may be a good idea to speak to the person if you spot them craving substances unusually.

Extreme Behaviour

Those with addictions to substances will typically go to any length to secure whatever they need, and curb their cravings for a while. For instance, they might start stealing money, lying to you about where they are, having unsafe sex, or just generally undertaking illegal activity. This is definitely a sign that they’re addicted to a substance, because that’s all they care about.

Financial Problems

Financial problems tend to be a natural side-effect of an addiction to a harmful substance. When it comes to money, it’s important to have priorities, such as bills and expenses. But, if someone is dependent on a drug, they’ll spend all the money they have on it, and therefore end up in debt when they miss payments.

Unhealthy Friendships

If your loved one is an addict, then there’s a strong chance that they’ll start to spend time with those who have similar interests, such as other drug users. That’s why its crucial that those wit addictions put themselves in positive friendship groups, so they can receive maximum support.

Isolating Themselves

You may realize that the individual has recently become quite reserved, and doesn’t socialize like they normally do. In addition, they may isolate themselves and not even make an effort to see their loved ones, which may be a sign that they’re going through symptoms of addiction.