Being able to recognize addictive behaviors in friends and loved ones is important. The faster that people get help, the easier it is for them to fight addiction. Unfortunately, not everyone knows how to spot signs of addiction in others, or themselves. Understanding the factors is an important first step in the battle to end addiction.
What Is Addiction?
The definition of addiction varies between health organizations. However, they agree that it’s a disease that affects motivation, memory function and the reward system in the brain. People who suffer from addiction crave the drug and showcase destructive behaviors.
The most important thing to remember about addiction is that it’s a disease rather than a choice of will. People who suffer from addiction don’t have control over their actions. Instead, they’re slaves to drugs. Most people know that they hurt themselves and loved ones by taking drugs, but they can’t physically stop taking them.
Identifying Addictive Behaviors
Addictive behaviors vary depending on the individual and the drugs he or she takes. However, experts have put together a list of general signs that most people exhibit when addicted to a substance. Some of these include:
- Lack of control and the inability to stay away from a certain drug
- Physical symptoms of withdrawal when they can’t get enough
- A complete disregard of risk factors when it comes to getting or taking drugs
- Abandoning commitments and relationships in favor of drugs
Keep in mind that the degree of these behaviors varies depending on the severity of the addiction. The degree of these behaviors also varies depending on the drugs that people take. Some drugs have a higher addiction rate and create a stronger hold on users.
Initial Warning Signs
Sometimes people can keep addictive behaviors from getting worse if they can spot some initial signs of abuse. For example, an initial sign includes experimenting with drugs. People with a history of addiction in their families may do well to be aware of early warning signs as well.
The link between a history of family addiction and the development of addiction isn’t absolute. Studies indicate that people with a history of family addiction are more at risk for developing addiction themselves. When they do, they don’t usually feel remorse for using drugs.
Stopping Addiction in Its Tracks
Fighting against addiction starts with getting help for people who exhibit addictive behaviors. Whether they take illegal street drugs or show signs of prescription drug abuse, it’s important to get them help.
The first step is to seek detox services. At Serenity House Detox & Recovery, we offer services such as:
- Heroin detox
- Alcohol detox
- Meth detox
- Medical detox
Don’t face your addiction alone. Let us help you down the path to recovery. We can help you or a loved one stop addiction. Call 866-294-5306 right now.
