Addiction sneaks up on us. If you suspect you’re an addict, read this article to find out.

Addiction creeps up on people. That’s the nature of the beast. If we noticed that we were becoming addicts, then we would stop and re-evaluate our actions. Unfortunately, because it sneaks up on us, many of us just don’t get the chance to do this. We wake up one day and realise we have a problem with alcohol or a problem with drugs or a problem with food. We don’t know when that problem started. We just know that it exists.

Being able to spot the symptoms and signs of an addiction will not only keep you safe, but it will also keep your loved ones safe. If you can recognise the hidden signs of addiction, you can better support your partner should the need arise. The same can be said of addicted children, relatives, or friends.

Here are three of the biggest tell-tale signs to look out for, if you think you or someone you love is an addict.

The Three Tell Tale Signs You Might Be an Addict

If you experience any of the following, you should consider getting yourself some help. You can find rehab for addiction services all over the Internet. However, we recommend that you use the service offered by Help4Addiction. They provide free consultations for those with addiction troubles and can refer you to a rehab which has been selected specifically for you. They operate throughout England and Wales.

Now, let’s get down to business.

Sign Number 1 = You Use Drugs or Alcohol as A Coping Mechanism

People who are addicted rely on the substance they take to help them get through hard times. This is exemplified by numerous studies[i], which have found a direct link between mental health problems and addiction. Those who are unable to deal with mental illness are unable to fight an addiction. This is just psychological fact. It doesn’t make you less of a person, it just makes you more vulnerable.

If you suspect that you are turning to drugs or alcohol whenever times get tough, then this is a warning sign. You are on a steady path towards addiction. Seek treatment now before it’s too late.

Sign number 2 = You Have Either Thought About Quitting or Are Unable to Quit

People suffering from drug and alcohol addiction often think about what life would be like if they stopped taking it. People who don’t suffer from addiction never have to think about this. This makes a clear definition. If you have thought about quitting, then you’re probably an addict. If you thought about quitting and you’re not an addict, it means that you have a drug or alcohol abuse problem.

Drunk or alcohol abuse isn’t an addiction yet. Drug abuse is when you binge drink or when you use cocaine on a Saturday. Addiction is only a few short steps away.

Sign Number 3 = You Have Started to Notice Changes in Your Physical Well Being.

Addiction is often accompanied by changes in your health. If your health has begun to decline physically or mentally, then you are probably suffering an addiction. It is never too early to go to rehab. You can even go to rehab for a short one week stay if you wish to eliminate a growing drug problem before it happens.

[i] https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/research-reports/common-comorbidities-substance-use-disorders/part-1-connection-between-substance-use-disorders-mental-illness