Addiction is a complicated and often all-encompassing condition that impacts the brain and behavior. Addiction usually leads individuals to compulsively seek and use substances or engage in activities despite understanding the consequences. Recognizing the symptoms of addiction is crucial for intervention and effective treatment. Learn the common signs and symptoms associated with addiction.
1. Physical Symptoms
People experiencing addiction often neglect personal hygiene. You may notice drastic weight loss or gain. Physical withdrawal symptoms can include sweating, shaking, nausea, or headaches and can occur when the addictive substance or behavior is not available.
2. Behavioral Symptoms
An inability to control the frequency or amount of substance use or behavior is normal behavior. Addiction often leads to missed work or school, poor performance, and neglect of family obligations. People may engage in dangerous activities while under the influence, such as driving or taking unnecessary risks.
3. Emotional Symptoms
Addiction can cause drastic mood changes, ranging from euphoria to irritability or depression. Feelings of unease or agitation, especially when unable to access the substance or activity. Individuals often experience feelings of regret or self-loathing related to their addiction.
4. Social Symptoms
People often experience isolation or pulling away from friends, family, and social activities to focus on the addiction. Strained relationships due to lying, stealing, or other behaviors related to the addiction. You may notice a reduced interest in hobbies or activities that were once enjoyable.
5. Cognitive Symptoms
People may appear preoccupied or constantly thinking about the substance or behavior, planning how to obtain it, or reminiscing about past experiences. Impaired judgment, such as making poor decisions, like spending money irresponsibly or engaging in illegal activities to support the addiction. Refusing to acknowledge the problem or downplaying its severity is also common.
6. Withdrawal from Reality
Individuals experiencing symptoms of addiction may use the substance or behavior as a way to avoid confronting personal problems, trauma, or stress. They may place the addiction above their relationships, career, or personal health.
7. Physical Health Decline
Addiction can lead to long-term health issues, such as liver damage, respiratory problems, or cardiovascular disease. People may experience persistent exhaustion due to disrupted sleep patterns or the physical toll of the addiction.
When to Seek Help for Symptoms of Addiction
If you or someone you know exhibits these symptoms, seeking professional help is critical. Addiction is a treatable condition. Recovery is possible. Treatment like therapy, counseling, and support groups can provide the tools to regain control and rebuild a fulfilling life.
Beating addiction may seem impossible, but it isn’t, and we can help. At Comprehensive Wellness Centers, we create custom plans to help each individual overcome their addiction. We can help you, too.
