1. Identifying the Signs and Symptoms of Addiction
Addiction is something we know destroys individuals and tears families
apart. Moreover, like so many other conditions, early identification is the key
to successful treatment. The earlier the addict can be treated, the greater
the chances of achieving total recovery. The opposite is also true. Waiting
too long to begin treatment only makes a full recovery that much more
difficult.
The purpose of this post is to help you identify a potential addiction
problem, whether you are the person suffering or a family member
concerned about a loved one. To that end, we will approach the addiction
question from both angles. We hope that by offering you the signs and
symptoms of addiction we will be able to help you start down the road to
recovery.
For Addicts: Symptoms of Addiction
Perhaps you suspect you might have a real problem with drugs or alcohol.
Perhaps you are ready to consider looking into rehab centers if it can be
proved to you that you have a problem. If that is the case, consider the
following symptoms of addiction:
• you drink or take drugs first thing in the morning
• you plan your entire day around drugs or alcohol
• you find yourself worrying about having enough of your chosen
substance

2. • you're willing to go to great lengths to obtain your substances
• you find drugs and alcohol interfering with routine tasks
• you are defensive when others talk about your drug or alcohol use
• drug or alcohol use is causing you to push family members away
• you find that you need to increase the amount you use in order to feel
the same amount of pleasure.
Any one of these symptoms could indicate you are on the road to addiction.
If you notice more than one, you might already be addicted. The fact that
you are willing to consider the symptoms of addiction means you have
taken the first step toward recovery. Why not take the next step by
contacting one of the many drug and alcohol rehab clinics in the UK?
For Families: Signs of Addiction
Families may have a more difficult time recognising addiction due to the fact
that addicts become so adept at hiding their problems. However, families do
not have to remain clueless. There are certain signs they can look for if they
suspect a problem exists. A person addicted to drugs or alcohol will often:
• exhibit unexplained mood swings
• suddenly lose or gain weight inexplicably
• withdraw from family members and friends
• exhibit moderate to severe financial problems
• begin to form new circles of 'undesirable' friends
• disappear from normal life for several days at a time
• be very combative when confronted about drugs or alcohol
• be willing to steal from family members in order to support their habit.
While you may not be able to unequivocally prove a loved one is dealing
with an addiction problem, a combination of a few of the signs is a good
indication trouble exists. In such a case, the best thing family members can
do is contact an addiction recovery referral service, a private clinic, or a
doctor.
Alcohol and drug rehab clinics are available to provide treatment to those
suffering with addiction issues. Whether you are the person suffering or a
family member or friend, please take heed to the symptoms and signs we
have listed here. If there is any indication of a problem, get help before it's
too late.