Do you have an addiction? Perhaps you drink alcohol often, but think you can stop whenever you want. It just takes the edge off. You may have use drugs a few times, but you don’t think you have an addiction. How do you know? No level of drug or alcohol use is safe. If you have the signs of addiction, you may need to seek help through Jacksonville addiction treatment.
Do You Have the Signs of Addiction?
Many people who need the addiction treatment programs Florida offers do not recognize their need for addiction. Often, individuals simply think they can stop using whenever they want and decide to do so. They rarely succeed, however. When someone is in the grip of drug or alcohol addiction, they are too close to their dependency to see how their actions are harming themselves and others.
To gain some perspective, it makes sense to ask yourself or others you think are struggling with substance abuse questions that get at the heart of addiction. However, honesty is vital. Look over the questions below and give your most forthright response.
Do You Think About Using Often?
Those who have an addiction need to use frequently. Even if they cannot use every day, they think about doing so. They think about when they will get their next drink or cannot wait to get out of school or work to get access to the drugs they desire. This indicates a person has developed an addiction in which their brain craves the drug when not present.
Do You Use More Now Than You Used To?
Another common indication of addiction is the development of tolerance. When you use an addictive drug, like alcohol, prescription medications, or illicit drugs, your body becomes used to it. It becomes dependent on it. Yet, to get that same high, you need to take more of the drug than you used to. This is called tolerance. Think back a few months ago. Were you using the same amount or the same type of drug?
Do You Have Different Behaviors?
It can be hard to see the signs of addiction like these in yourself. Ask someone close to you to help you look for these changes:
- Do you miss work or school often? Perhaps someone has to explain to the family why you often miss appointments and functions.
- Do you find yourself lying about how much you are drinking or using? Do you hide your use?
- Do you still engage in the activities that have always been things you liked to do?
- Do you struggle with meeting responsibilities, such as being able to pay your bills?
- Do you steal drugs from other people because you’ve run out?
When you see these signs of addiction in yourself, reach out to the substance abuse treatment programs, Florida residents have access to them. When you do, you can learn not only if you have a problem but also how to overcome it for good. You can reclaim your life and rebuild those relationships when you take these steps to help you start on the path towards recovery.
When Addiction Is Taking Hold, Get the Help You Need Fast
It is not uncommon to struggle with the fact that you or a loved one has an addiction. When you see the signs of addiction in yourself, though, don’t ignore them. Instead, act on them. Reach out to a drug treatment center that can provide you with the support and care you need in these difficult situations. By getting the necessary support, you can heal from the disease of addiction and make a lasting recovery.
