Recognizing Addiction: Early Clues You Shouldn’t Ignore in Yourself or Others

Addiction often starts subtly, making it hard to notice the early warning signs. Whether it's with substances like alcohol or drugs, or behaviors such as gambling or excessive smartphone use, addiction can creep up gradually. Learning to recognize the signs early on can be key to addressing the issue before it spirals out of control. Here are a few things to watch out for, both in yourself and others.

Increased Tolerance

One of the earliest signs of addiction is increased tolerance. This means that over time, you or someone you know might need more of a substance or engage in a behavior more frequently to get the same satisfaction or high. For example, a person might start drinking more alcohol than usual because their body has become used to the smaller amounts.

Neglecting Responsibilities

Another red flag is when important daily responsibilities begin to take a backseat. If someone starts skipping work, avoiding family commitments, or neglecting their personal hygiene because of a particular substance or behavior, it could indicate a growing problem.

Loss of Control

If you find yourself saying things like "Just one more," or "I can stop whenever I want," but then can't stop, it might be a sign of addiction. Losing control over the amount of time or money spent on a particular behavior—whether it's drinking, smoking, or even spending hours scrolling on your phone—signals that it’s becoming harder to regulate.

Withdrawal Symptoms

Experiencing physical or emotional withdrawal symptoms when not engaging in the substance or behavior is another common sign. These symptoms can range from irritability and anxiety to physical symptoms like sweating or shaking.

Secrecy and Denial

People struggling with addiction may start to hide their habits. They may lie about their behavior or downplay its frequency. Denial is a big part of addiction, both for the person affected and those around them. If you notice someone being secretive or defensive, it’s worth paying attention.

Seeking Help for Addiction

Recognizing these early signs is the first step in addressing addiction. If you or someone you know is showing these signs, it’s important to seek help. Addiction is treatable, but professional support is often necessary. Consulting a qualified therapist can provide guidance and create a personalized plan to address the issue and work toward recovery.

Update - We have added a tool in our website called "AUDIT: Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test". It is a self assessment screening tool for people with alcohol use. You can access it by clicking below.