Written by Brandon Okey. Mina Draskovic, B.Psy., reviewed this content for accuracy.

Assessing whether you’re an addict or struggling with substance abuse is not an easy nor comfortable task to perform, but it’s necessary to recognize the signs and get help. Continue reading to answer the questions below. If you answer yes to one or more, it’s time to reach out to a recovery treatment center.

Am I an Addict Q&A

Have you ever lied about your drinking or drug abuse?
Do you ever drink or use drugs alone?
Have you ever felt guilty or ashamed about your use of drinking or drugs?
Have you ever been arrested for anything alcohol or drug-related?
Have you ever thought you can’t enjoy yourself without drugs or alcohol?
Have you ever used prescription drugs in a non-medical way?
Have you ever mixed drugs or taken more than you were prescribed or more than one at a time?
Have you ever switched drugs or types of drugs?
Are you unable to deal with daily life without needing drugs or alcohol?
Have drugs or drinking created problems within your relationships, including your spouse and children?
Do people close to you ever complain about your alcohol or drug use?
Have you abandoned obligations, responsibilities, or hobbies to use drugs?
Have you lost relationships and friends due to your drug or alcohol use?
Have you ever “blacked out” or fainted when you drank or used drugs?
When not drinking or getting high, do you find yourself obsessed with taking drugs or alcohol?
Have you ever stolen anything to get high or get drunk?
Have you ever tried to stop using drugs or alcohol and can’t?
Do you frequently find yourself angry or depressed when not drinking or using drugs?
Has using drugs or drinking affected your job or school?
Have you ever been fired for drinking on the job?
Is buying drugs or alcohol a bigger priority than bills or other financial responsibilities?
Do you continue to drink or use drugs even though you know the adverse effects?
Have you had to use more drugs or alcohol to get the same desired effect?
Have you ever overdosed on any drugs?
Do you feel physically ill when you stop drinking or using drugs?
Have you ever been involved in a treatment program due to your drug or alcohol use?

Signs of Drug or Alcohol Addiction

Other ways to tell if you could be an addict is your behavior and physical appearance. For instance, addicts usually appear different. You may have bloodshot eyes, shakes or tremors, bad breath, bloody noses, or have lost or gained weight. You may also sleep more or less, depending on the type of substance you’re using. Your appetite may change to eating more or less than you used to, or you find you crave certain foods or are turned off by them. Relationships may be strained, and you may find yourself more irritated at people or things. Another sign of addiction is a change in your behavior. You may turn to crime to get more of the substance or even violence. Your driving may be more erratic, as well as your cognitive abilities. Your work may suffer, and things you once could do or liked to do may be difficult.

Recognize these Signs?

If you see yourself in the above-mentioned signs, please contact Ardu Recovery Center today. Our facility is trained and experienced in helping addicts recover and get their life back. It just takes the first step, and you can get the help you deserve. We hope you will get in touch with us and trust that we can be the lifeline you need.

Brandon Okey is the co-founder of Ardu Recovery Center and is dedicated to empowering people on their journey to sobriety.

Am I an Addict Q&A

Signs of Drug or Alcohol Addiction

Recognize these Signs?

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