Seeking out this article is a valuable first step in determining whether you may have an addiction problem. People who do not struggle with substance use typically do not question if they have an issue, but your circumstances may be different. Recognizing an addiction can be challenging because, often, ignorance is bliss. If we choose not to think about it, we may convince ourselves that there is nothing to worry about. If simply reading this article isn’t enough for you to accept that you might have a problem, consider the signs listed below that may indicate an issue.

Do your family and friends comment on your substance use?

This question is straightforward. Are people expressing concern about your usage or the amount you’re consuming? Do you find yourself distancing from your family to avoid worrying them? Are you afraid they might discover your substance use? Those who care about us are often concerned for a reason; they know us well and are attentive to our behavior. Your addiction may be more noticeable to your family than you realize. They can likely tell when you are using and when you are not because your demeanor changes with substance use. Your voice might sound different, or you could have trouble walking steadily. You may exhibit signs of mania or depression. Even subtle changes in your behavior do not go unnoticed by your loved ones.

Are you hiding your substance use?

Concealing your use or the amount you consume is a significant warning sign that you may have a problem. If you were not ashamed of it, you wouldn’t feel the need to keep it a secret or become paranoid about it. If you cannot be honest about your use, do you truly believe you are acting correctly? Are you concerned about being judged? Reflect honestly with yourself: are you hiding?

Do you often find yourself thinking about your use?

If you’re constantly counting down the minutes until you can use again, it may indicate a problem. Do you find it hard to enjoy activities without the substance? These questions are important to consider, as they reveal the obsession that addiction can create. It can be challenging when the substance is always on your mind.

Are you creating a supply, so you don’t run out?

Do you often worry about depleting your stock? Many people visit multiple liquor stores to stock up on supplies, not wanting to appear as if they have a problem. For many, there is a sense of shame surrounding their active use, and the fear of being judged can intensify that feeling. Does creating a stockpile help alleviate anxiety? Many addicts ensure they have a sufficient supply to avoid running out.

Do you often find yourself making excuses for your use?

 Excuses can be a major barrier to genuine acceptance. We tend to make excuses not only to others but also to ourselves. We might say, “It helps with my pain,” “It alleviates my anxiety,” or “I need it right now because I’m feeling sad.” Sometimes, we convince ourselves that it enhances our focus, that we’re not causing harm to anyone, or even that it’s someone else’s fault that we use.

These justifications can become so routine that we lose sight of the fact that we’re doing it. The anxiety that accompanies cravings can feel overwhelming, making it seem almost unnatural to refrain from using. This leads us to rationalize our need, often to get sympathy from others and divert attention from the extent of our usage. We strive to normalize our behavior as much as possible.

Are you surrounding yourself with people who match your using?

It is easier to live in active addiction when we choose our friends carefully. If we surround ourselves with people who are completely fine with drinking four bottles of wine at dinner, the focus will not be on us. We know they won’t comment on our substance use because they reflect our behavior. We don’t have to hide our addiction from those who may struggle with the same issue.

It is up to you….

Only you can determine whether you have a problem. There may be countless red flags, but it’s ultimately your choice to acknowledge and accept that your use has become unmanageable. Taking that first step to ask for help can be frightening, but you can find freedom from your addiction. Remember, you are not alone.

A good way to move forward is to seek an assessment from a licensed counselor. They are there to help, not judge you. You don’t have to continue questioning whether you have a problem. Collaborate with someone who is trained to provide their professional opinion.