Addiction Test
Over the last half year, I've taken drugs that weren't prescribed for medical purposes.
I've mixed multiple substances together at the same time.
I've ended up using more of a substance or using it longer than I planned to.
Occasionally, I question if I might be reliant on a drug or other substance.
Whenever I decide to quit using drugs or substances, I can do it without any trouble.
Substance use has caused me to have memory gaps or blackouts at least once.
My health has suffered in some way because of my substance use.
There are moments when I feel guilty or regretful about my substance use.
A significant portion of my time goes toward obtaining or consuming drugs.
I've never participated in illegal activities to acquire drugs.
I've used substances in settings where it could be physically dangerous.
It takes me quite a while to bounce back after using substances.
I often feel intense urges or cravings to use a substance.
People close to me, like family or friends, have inquired about my drug involvement.
I've attempted to quit using a substance multiple times but ended up starting again.
When I stopped using a substance, I dealt with uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms.
I've turned to substances to ease the discomfort I feel when I'm not using them.
My substance use has led me to skip out on work or school responsibilities at times.
Sometimes, I've failed to meet family duties because of my substance use.
I notice I need higher amounts of a substance to get the same effect I used to.
20 questions remaining
What you should know
- Addiction happens when the brain's normal pathways of pleasure are messed up. Using a drug changes the way the brain works, making it harder to control the pull of a strong chemical rush of reward.
- Studies indicate that the circumstances of an individual's life, particularly the absence of certain experiences, significantly influence the perceived effects of a substance.
- Having a rewarding job, strong relationships with family and friends, and a good sense of self-worth are all things that can help people avoid using drugs or alcohol in a bad way.
- People who are addicted may not realise that their actions are hurting themselves or others because addiction affects the brain's executive functions.
- About 240 million people around the world can't control how much alcohol they drink, even though it is widely used for fun and is a big part of social life around the world.
Do Something Now
Improve your ability to deal with stress. Not being able to handle stress is a big reason why people use drugs.
Get help from your doctor. Addiction often hides a deeper issue, like depression, anxiety, attention deficit disorder, PTSD, or chronic pain, all of which can be treated.
Stay close to your friends. A strong network of friends is a big reason not to use, and it can also be a great support system for recovery.
