7 Signs of Addiction
What is Addiction? According to the Mirriam Webster dictionary, “addiction” is defined as “a compulsive need for and use of a habit forming substance characterized by tolerance and by well defined physiological symptoms upon withdrawl.” People can be addicted to drugs (prescription or illegal), alcohol, gambling, sex, food, gaming, or nicotine.
When does it become a problem? A person becomes addicted when they feel they must have the substance in order to function. An addicted person will rationalize why they need it, and as the addiction becomes stronger, will do just about anything to get it. Here are seven common signs of addiction:
* Craving the substance
* Increase in risky behavior
* Health problems (fatigue, insomnia, cariodvascualar, digestive, cognitive functions)
* Disrupted relationships
* Decrease in work performance or loss of job
* Withdrawl symptoms
* Over spending on the addiction
Some people are able to realize they are addicted and simply walk away from it and it’s never a problem again. Most others, however, need assistance breaking the addiction cycle. If you have some or all of these seven symptoms, please seek assistance from a knowledable professional. There is help available.
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