The signs and symptoms of addiction
Take the first step towards recovery by understanding the most common signs and symptoms of addiction.
Start your recovery today at Priory.
Addiction is a complex yet treatable condition that affects many people worldwide. It means a person compulsively takes a substance or performs a behaviour, despite the negative or harmful consequences it has on their life.
Over time, the brain gets used to the elevated dopamine levels it gets from the substance or behaviour. This can lead to intense cravings and make it very difficult for a person to stop alone.
By understanding the symptoms of addiction and recognising them early, you or your loved one can receive timely support and begin the recovery process.
Common physical, behavioural and mental symptoms of addiction
The signs of addiction can vary depending on the substance or behaviour involved, but typically include a mix of physical, mental and behavioural changes.
If you recognise any of these symptoms in yourself or someone else, it’s important to reach out to a health professional for specialist support.
Below are some of the core symptoms that could indicate addiction:
- Developing a tolerance to the substance or behaviour, meaning you need more of the substance or behaviour to achieve the same effect
- Withdrawal symptoms: experiencing discomfort, restlessness or illness without the substance or behaviour
- Changes in appetite or weight due to the effects addiction can have on the brain, metabolism or eating habits. For example, stimulant drugs, such as cocaine, can suppress appetite. Or you may neglect meals due to prioritising addictive behaviours such as gambling
- Certain substance addictions, such as alcohol or opioids, can increase the frequency of illness by weakening the immune system
- Unexplained fatigue due to disruptions to your sleep. For example, you may stay up all night gambling or gaming, leading to fatigue. Or your sleep may be disrupted by the level of alcohol in your system, meaning you don’t get a good night’s rest
- Neglecting personal hygiene and self-care as the addiction can cause low energy levels and motivation. You might prioritise the addiction over self-care
- Certain substances, such as methamphetamine, can cause changes in appearance including bad skin, hair, teeth or nails due to the harmful effects they have on the body
- Inability to control the frequency or intensity of your substance use, or addictive behaviours
- Prioritising the addiction over responsibilities, such as work, relationships or personal health
- Spending excessive amounts of money on the substance or behaviour
- Problems at work, such as poor performance or absenteeism
- Engaging in risky behaviours. For example, stealing in order to acquire the substance or engage in the addictive behaviour (such as gambling) or having unsafe sex
- Hiding the extent of your addiction from others and getting defensive when questioned
- Spending time with different people than usual
- Experiencing anxiety, agitation or mood instability when you’re unable to drink, take drugs or engage in the addictive behaviour
- Constantly thinking about the next opportunity for you to drink, take drugs or engage in the addictive behaviour
- Relying on the addiction to manage stress, emotions or difficult situations
- Lack of interest in things that used to be important to you (such as hobbies)
- Understating the seriousness of your drinking, drug use or behaviour
- Suicidal thoughts related to addiction
Addiction vs. habit: how to tell the difference
The key difference between a habit and an addiction is the level of control a person has over the behaviour or substance and how it impacts their life.
A habit is a repetitive behaviour that can be controlled and voluntarily stopped without much distress. It doesn’t significantly disrupt a person’s life. For example, a person may enjoy gambling casually without it interfering with their daily life or wellbeing.
An addiction is a compulsive behaviour that a person feels unable to control despite the negative consequences it has on their life. For example, when a person feels unable to stop gambling despite it negatively affecting their work, relationships, wellbeing and finances.
Self-assessment: recognising the symptoms in yourself or others
If you’re concerned that you or someone you know might have an addiction, it’s worth exploring this further.
People often avoid getting help because they believe their problem isn’t serious enough or they aren’t truly addicted. But even if your symptoms seem mild, it’s important to take action early to prevent symptoms getting worse over time.
Recognising the signs of addiction is important in understanding when it’s time to get help. Here’s a self-assessment that may help you recognise symptoms of addiction in yourself or others:
- Do you find it hard to control your use, even when you want to stop?
- Do you feel anxious or restless if you can’t engage in the behaviour or use the substance?
- Do you find yourself needing more of the behaviour or substance to feel the same satisfaction?
- Does your use or behaviour interfere with work or relationships?
- Have you neglected any responsibilities so you can continue using or engaging in the addictive behaviour?
- Have friends or family expressed concerns about your behaviour or substance use?
- Do you experience physical or emotional withdrawal symptoms when you’re not using or engaging in the addictive behaviour?
If you find that you’re answering ‘yes’ to a number of these questions, this might be a sign that you need professional guidance and support.
If you’re concerned about your alcohol consumption and want to know more about your relationship with alcohol, you can take our quick online alcohol quiz.
What to do next: seeking help and support options
If you recognise the symptoms of addiction in yourself or others, it’s important to reach out for help. Addiction is treatable, and compassionate support can pave the way for a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Early intervention is crucial to prevent the addiction getting worse and reduce the risks posed by the behaviour or substance.
Seeking guidance from a healthcare professional can provide clarity and understanding of what help is available. Community support groups like AA, or other addiction support helplines can also be helpful for individuals to connect, share experiences and learn new coping strategies.
At Priory, we offer advice and guidance, free addiction assessments and a range of evidence-based treatment options delivered by highly qualified specialists.
