Do I have a substance use problem?

Recognising that your substance use is causing problems in your life is the moment you realise you are on a path of addiction. Being addicted is to experience a strong desire or compulsion to use a substance when that may not be the best thing for your life. Substance use problems are addressed by cutting down or stopping use. However, it gets worse over time. So noticing the signs early means you can take action now before it gets more difficult to cut down or stop in the future.

Physical addiction

Someone can be physically addicted if they notice strong urges to use a drug regardless of the setting or situation. If they don't use the drug, the urges continue and other effects of withdrawal may be felt. These feelings reduce over a period of weeks, depending on the drug and level of use. Someone with a strong physical addiction can find that trying to cut down is not a realistic solution, but stopping could also be a real challenge.

Psychological addiction

Someone can be psychologically addicted if they notice strong urges to use a drug in a specific setting or situation. For example, MDMA is not considered physically addictive, but in a night club someone could feel a strong urge to use it because they're accustomed to experiencing it's effects in that setting.

An addiction can involve both physical and psychological effects. If you're noticing signs of addiction in your drug use, DrugHelp is a great place to start.

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Keeping well

Addiction — Addiction takes over your life, but with a bit of help you can get it back.