Recognizing the need for addiction treatment is one of the most important steps to reclaiming your life from the grips of substance use and addiction. It’s also one of the most difficult decisions you may make. For many, substance use begins as a way to cope or enjoy some temporary relief, but it can easily spiral into something that becomes all-consuming.
When left unaddressed, addiction can take a toll on your emotional well-being, physical health, and relationships.
There are certain signs that are strong indicators that it’s time to seek professional help. Here, Symetria Recovery discusses the top signs that you may need addiction treatment, and offer you the support and encouragement needed to take the first important step.
When Substance Use Turns Into Addiction
Addiction is a disease that forms over time. A person is not addicted the very first time they take a drink of alcohol or use an addictive substance, although once someone is diagnosed with addiction, it is considered a chronic condition that can be managed and overcome, but remains part of a person’s story.
Addiction is more than just trying a substance a couple of times, and it’s more than just frequent use. Addiction is when there’s a loss of control over substance use that’s combined with physical and/or emotional dependence.
The National Institute of Drug Abuse defines addiction as “A chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use despite adverse consequences.” This includes cravings and urges to use addictive substances, and experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using.
Understanding when substance use becomes addiction is important because this is the turning point for determining what type of substance use recovery treatment is needed. Some people spot the signs of problematic use and seek treatment before addiction forms. Once a person is in active addiction, this is the point where professional treatment can make all the difference.
Signs You May Need Treatment for Addiction
Addiction is more common in the United States than many people realize. It’s estimated that more than 40 million people in this country have a substance use disorder, but that only 6.5 percent of them will receive treatment.
There are multiple reasons that people don’t receive the addiction treatment they need, including stigma and lack of access. However, it’s also the case that many people don’t even seek treatment because they don’t realize how severe their substance use has become.
When substance use has escalated to the point of addiction, there are both physical and emotional signs that indicate it’s time to receive help.
Physical Signs
The human body is an incredible machine. It’s resilient in ways we’re not always aware of. Part of what makes the body so efficient is its ability to send warning signals when something is amiss. This is why the body often tells a story of substance dependency long before the mind even processes it or before emotional symptoms begin to manifest.
Physical signs of drug or alcohol dependence include:
- Fatigue or general lack of energy
- Frequent illness due to a weakened immune system
- Changes in eating or fitness habits that result in noticeable weight loss or gain
- Signs of injuries that can’t be explained, such as bruises, cuts, or swelling associated with accidents and risky behaviors that the individual can’t recall
- Noticeable withdrawal symptoms when going without the substance for a period of time, including headaches, fatigue, nausea, sweating, and tremors
Emotional Signs
Addiction isn’t just a physical disease, it’s an emotional one as well. Substance use has a significant impact on mental health:
Emotional signs of drug or alcohol dependence include:
- Isolation from friends, family, and loved ones due to wanting to hide the substance use
- Feelings of shame or guilt related to substance use
- Sneaking around and hiding the substance use, or covering up how much it has increased
- Frequent feelings of anxiety, depression, and irritability
- Difficulty finding joy in things that once created happiness
Warning Signs of Dangerous Behaviors
Sometimes the physical and emotional symptoms of needed substance use treatment go unnoticed, and it’s participating in risky, dangerous behaviors that serve as a wake-up call.
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Experiencing blackouts or losing memories of events due to substance use
- Engaging in unsafe behaviors while using substances, especially with strangers
- Engaging in illegal activities while under the influence, or committing crimes in order to secure more of the addictive substance
Subtle Signs That Often Go Unnoticed
It’s not uncommon for addiction to hide in plain sight, without the individual or anyone that they are close to them immediately recognizing that a problem has formed or is developing. Subtle signs of substance use disorders may be passed off as a difficult phase, depression, or restlessness, especially if it’s also a time of transition or upheaval in a person’s life.
For example, there may be difficulties with work or school that weren’t present before. Missed days, a lack of focus, and difficulties fulfilling responsibilities can be some of the first subtle signs of a substance use disorder.
Going along with this, there may be growing financial difficulties. This may result from diminished work performance, carelessness with money, and loss of money that has been redirected toward supporting the addiction.
Finally, one of the often overlooked subtle signs of substance use disorder is an increased tolerance. Maybe someone who once felt tipsy after two glasses of wine now needs to consume an entire bottle before achieving the same effect. Another example is someone who might take one pain pill a day to manage their pain, but finds that they need to take it more frequently to achieve the same results.
Overcoming Common Barriers to Seeking Treatment When Needed
Recognizing the signs of addiction and the need for help through treatment are critical first steps. However, many people face barriers that make actually seeking and receiving the needed treatment feel impossible.
It’s not uncommon for stigma to hold people back from receiving the help they need. There’s a fear of being judged or labeled, especially if there are concerns about family, friends, work, or other social circles discovering the extent of the addiction.
It’s important to remember that addiction is a disease. It’s a health issue that affects a person’s physical and mental well-being. Just as with any other chronic health issue, treatment is how you get healthy and regain control of your life. Addiction is not a moral failing or a sign of weak character.
Cost and access are also barriers that many people face. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is a great resource for finding local treatment options. Also, keep in mind that many treatment centers offer flexible payment options and that treatment may also be covered by your insurance.
Last, but not least, is the fear of change as an obstacle. It’s natural to feel uncertain about what lies ahead, and overcoming addiction is a difficult, challenging road. Trust that your life can only get better with proper treatment, and that compassionate, effective treatment and support are available for you every step of the way.
Begin The Next Stage of Your Life Today
If you or your loved one is struggling with addiction, know that the perfect time to receive treatment is now. At Symetria Recovery, we’re here to help with our highly respected outpatient treatment programs. We encourage you to contact us today, and let one of our compassionate team members help you better understand what addiction treatment looks like, answer your questions, and guide you to the next steps to receiving the help you need and deserve.
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