Signs of Addiction: Understanding Substance Use

5 min read

Addiction is a health condition, not a moral failing. The U.S. National Institute on Drug Abuse describes it as compulsive drug seeking and use despite harmful consequences, involving lasting changes in the brain. It can involve illegal drugs, but also medicines prescribed for pain, sleep or anxiety.

Signs that use may be becoming a problem

Clinicians look at patterns rather than any single event. Signs include:

Using more, or more often, than intended.
Trying to cut down and not being able to.
Strong cravings, or thinking about using a lot of the time.
Use affecting work, study, family or finances.
Hiding use, or feeling guilty about it.
Needing more for the same effect, or feeling unwell without it.
Carrying on despite physical, emotional or relationship harm.

Prescription medicines count too

Misuse of prescription medicines includes taking someone else's prescription, taking more than prescribed or in a different way, or taking a medicine for the feeling it gives rather than for its medical purpose. Medicines for pain, anxiety and sleep, and stimulants, are among those most often misused.

What the DAST-10 check asks

The DAST-10 is a ten-question, yes-or-no screen about use of drugs and medicines (other than as prescribed) over the past year. It does not cover alcohol, which has its own check. Like any screen, it can show whether a conversation with a professional may help; it cannot diagnose.

Addiction is treatable

Effective treatment exists and recovery is common. Treatment is tailored to the person and can include counselling, medicines for some substances, and support for family. International standards from the WHO and UNODC call for treatment that is voluntary, evidence-based and respectful of privacy.

Key takeaways

Addiction is a health condition marked by compulsive use despite harm.
Prescription medicines can be misused too, including someone else's.
DAST-10 is a private ten-question screen; it is not a diagnosis.
Treatment works, and it can be confidential.

Take the free, private substance-use check

Sources

Draft content, pending clinical review.