There are many signs that people who have an addiction may need to see a professional. These can include mood swings, changes in eating habits, loss of interest in activities they used to enjoy, and more. If you or someone you love is showing these symptoms they may benefit from addiction treatment. Read on to learn about the six most common signs that it’s time for addiction treatment.
You find yourself withdrawing from activities you used to enjoy.
If you are finding that you are withdrawing from activities you used to enjoy, this is a sign that your addiction is starting to take over your life. When you become addicted to something, it can start to consume your thoughts and prevent you from engaging in other activities. This isolation can be dangerous and lead to depression or worse.
Your mood has changed drastically.
If you find that your moods are changing drastically it may be a sign of addiction. It’s important to note, however, that these changes can also be signs of other medical conditions or mental illnesses so this is not the only symptom to look for when assessing if treatment is needed. This can be expressed as irritability, changes in energy or sleep patterns, lack of motivation, or other forms of differentiated behavior.
You are experiencing physical withdrawal symptoms when you stop using the substance.
Physical withdrawal can be an extremely dangerous symptom to experience if it is not addressed by a professional addiction treatment center. Withdrawal occurs when your body has become so used to having a certain drug that it needs that drug in order to function. If you are experiencing physical withdrawal symptoms when trying to stop using your substance, it is time for addiction treatment.
You find yourself continuing to use the substance despite negative consequences on relationships or job/school performance.
When people become addicted they will often continue their behavior even if doing so results in problems with their relationships or work and school performance. This is because the addiction has taken over their thoughts and they are no longer thinking in terms of their success and obligations. If you find yourself in this situation, it is important to seek professional help before the consequences get worse.
You hide your substance abuse from others.
If you are hiding your substance abuse from others, this is a sign that you know you need help and are ashamed of your addiction. This secrecy can be dangerous as it can lead to further self-isolation and denial. If others start to notice that you are hiding your substance abuse, it is time to reconsider your addiction treatment options.
You use the substance more frequently or start using a new substance.
After using a substance for a long time, the body becomes increasingly used to having it. For this reason, it is not uncommon for those who suffer from drug addictions to begin using more in order to feel the same high. It also isn’t uncommon for addicts to start using harder drugs to feel the way that the other substances made them feel. If you find that your substance abuse is becoming more frequent than intended or you are using a new substance in order to avoid withdrawal symptoms, this can be dangerous and should not be taken lightly.
If you are experiencing any of these signs, it is time to consider addiction treatment. The sooner you seek help, the better your chances for a successful recovery. For more information on addiction and its effects, please visit online directories such as Rehab.com to find addiction treatment centers in your area.