Warning signs of Addiction:
The Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuses Services (2011) provides the following information:
A person in need of treatment will likely exhibit some of the following symptoms:
1) the substance (drugs or alcohol) is often taken in larger amounts or over a longer period of time than intended;
2) persistent desire, or one or more unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control substance use;
3) excessive time spent getting, taking, or recovering from the substance;
4) frequent intoxication or withdrawal symptoms when expected to fulfill major role obligations at work, school, or home, or when substance use is physically hazardous;
5) important social, occupational, or recreational activities are given up or reduced because of substance use;
6) continued substance use despite knowledge of having a persistent or recurrent social, psychological, or physical problem that is caused or exacerbated by the use of the substance;
7) marked tolerance--need for increased amounts of the substance (at least a 50 percent increase) to achieve intoxication or desired effect, or markedly diminished effect with continued use of the same amount;
8) characteristic withdrawal symptoms; and
9) substance often taken to avoid or relieve withdrawal symptoms.
Based on the number and duration of these symptoms reported, a diagnosis of abuse or treatment need may be determined.
In adolescents, warning signs often include:
· changes in sleeping, eating, or grooming habits;
· hypersensitivity or temper tantrums;
· unexplained weight loss or gain; red or watery eyes;
· shaking of the hands, feet, or legs;
· frequent nausea or vomiting;
· excessive sweating; a drop in grades at school;
· skipping school;
· loss of interest in family activities previously enjoyed;
· an "I don't care" attitude;
· excessive need for privacy or secrecy;
· and/or an unexplained need for money or stealing money.
If you or someone you know is affected by addition and wants help, please see our Helpful Links & Resources page or contact us for more information. Remember, addiction is real and addiction can happen to anyone. Help is available.