Addiction

It is said that the problems of addiction are so prevalent today that most people can say that they know someone who has had a problem with substance abuse.  And even those that say they do not know of anyone most likely just do not know the addiction symptoms and signs as the person has not become open about their problem, or even know themselves that they have one.  Perhaps you have a child, spouse or other family member or friend that you are worried about having an addiction problem.  Here are a few symptoms to look out for.

The addiction symptoms of a person that may have a problem will most likely include a tolerance to the substance.  A tolerance is when your body builds up resistance to the substance.  The result is the need to take more in order to achieve the same feeling.  On the other hand, what happens when you stop altogether can also be seen as a symptom.

Stopping use and the feelings you get because of it is called withdrawal. This is your body’s way of saying “feed me”.  Most often these addiction symptoms will include vomiting, elevated heart rate, and severe cramps.  Furthermore, you will see a need to replace the substance with something that is similar in order to relieve the withdrawal symptoms.

However, in the case of prescribed medications, the addictive symptoms can include the person taking a larger dosage over a period of time that was longer than prescribed.  This is an example of those that become dependant on prescription medications, a common problem especially for those using pain relief drugs.

What’s more, you will often see the person show a desire to decrease the amounts they use but are often unsuccessful.  The need to control the problem becomes more wanted but less easy to maintain.   Furthermore, another one of the more common addictive symptoms is the time and effort spent on getting the substance.  These people will virtually move heaven and earth to get what they need, and the act of getting it can become an obsession in and of itself.

For many, the addictive symptoms included a decreased engagement in every day activities and those activities that once were important.  These could include hobbies and sports activities.  The need to find and use their substance of choice has overwhelmed all other desires.

These are just some of the symptoms that people may see in their loved ones or friends.  Where some may see only one or two, other may see all of these and more.  And unfortunately, the end result can be the person not being able to stop even if they are aware of the consequences.  If you see any of these addictive symptoms, talk to the person who is showing them, or speak to any number of people available at treatment centers to see what you can do to help.