No one sets out to develop a problem that results in needing drug and alcohol recovery. Most of the time, you may not even realize that you have an issue until it becomes so out of control that it damages you physically, emotionally, and spiritually. When you realize that you have a problem, then you can begin the journey toward drug and alcohol recovery. Below are a few signs that you may have a drug or alcohol addiction.
Intense Cravings and Dependence
The most common indication that you have an issue with drugs or alcohol is if you have constant cravings for the substance. When you introduce substances to your body that alter the natural chemistry, your body becomes dependent on that substance to continue feeling that different set of chemicals. If you can’t go more than a few hours before thinking about when you can have your next drink or get your next hit, then your body has become physically dependent, a sure sign of addiction.
Financial Issues
Dependence on drugs or alcohol requires more and more of the substance to get that hit and feel that rush. This requires you to spend more and more money to continue feeling the effects of the drugs or alcohol. Increased spending puts financial strain on other areas of your life. If more and more of your money is going toward drugs and alcohol, or if you have resorted to stealing and other means to pay for your next hit, you are dealing with an addiction.
Damaged Relationships
Drug and alcohol addiction doesn’t just affect you physically and financially—it damages your relationships as well. You may lose connections with friends and family as your world becomes focused on your addiction. Good influences are an important part of drug and alcohol recovery. If you’ve lost important relationships with your parents, siblings, and close friends because of drugs and alcohol, you may be struggling with addiction.
