Signs of addiction and how to help
Medically reviewed by Dr. Betsy Koickel, MD on July 23, 2026.
Key takeaways:
- Symptoms of addiction can include loss of control, withdrawal symptoms, secrecy, social isolation, and continuing a substance or behavior despite negative consequences.
- Addiction is a chronic but treatable condition that affects the brain’s reward, motivation, and decision-making systems.
- If you are wondering how to help someone with addiction, start with support, boundaries, and trusted resources for treatment.
The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) defines addiction as a chronic but treatable disease that impacts how the brain processes rewards. Individuals can be addicted to behaviors or substances, typically at the expense of other important parts of life, such as work or family.
If you believe a family member or loved one might be displaying symptoms of addiction, here are a few things to look out for and how to help.
Symptoms of addiction to look out for
You may be familiar with drug or alcohol addiction, also known as substance use disorder. However, people can be addicted to substances and behaviors that become difficult to control, even when they cause harm.
What are the signs of addiction? The symptoms of addiction can vary depending on the substance or behavior. Common signs may include:
- A lack of control around a specific substance or behavior
- Changes in behavior, such as secrecy, lying, or withdrawing
- Changes in physical health, such as weight change or low energy
- Continuing to use a substance or engage in a behavior despite negative consequences
- Increased tolerance of a substance, needing a higher dose for the same effect
- Neglecting personal appearance or hygiene
- Physical withdrawal symptoms when not using the substance
- Social isolation from family, friends, or meaningful relationships
- Spending money you cannot afford to get the substance or continue the behavior
- Stealing, borrowing money, or hiding spending related to the substance or behavior
- Struggling to meet responsibilities at work, school, or home
A person not addicted to a substance or behavior typically identifies negative consequences and changes their behavior. Someone addicted will continue to abuse the substance or continue the behavior despite the personal and physical cost.
How do I know if I have an addiction?
If you are asking, “How do I know if I have an addiction?” start by looking at how much control you feel you have over the substance or behavior. Addiction may be present if you have tried to cut back but cannot, continue despite negative consequences, hide your use from others, or feel withdrawal symptoms when you stop.
You may also notice that the substance or behavior takes priority over relationships, work, school, finances, or your health. If you are unsure, consider talking with a healthcare provider or mental health professional who can help you understand your symptoms and explore treatment options.
Understanding addiction: why it happens
There are many different underlying causes of addiction and risk factors that can contribute to someone becoming addicted.
Genetics and your environment, such as the friends you hang out with, can be risk factors for developing an addiction. People with family members who struggle with substance abuse could be more predisposed to also becoming addicted to drugs, alcohol, or other harmful behaviors.
When you use an addictive substance, it causes physical changes to cells in the brain that alter how you feel pleasure and process external signals. Certain substances, such as drugs, can alter the brain’s chemicals or how the brain works.
Substances directly impact areas that drive pleasure, motivation, rewards, habits, and routines. The reward from the addiction takes over these parts of the brain and makes it hard to feel pleasure from anything other than the drug.
A history of mental health disorders, isolation, early substance use, and taking a highly addictive drug can also lead to addiction.
How to help someone with addiction
If you believe your loved one is struggling with addiction, it can be difficult to watch. For some people, trying to help their loved one can lead to codependency, where an individual makes excuses for or inadvertently supports the addictive behavior.
To help your loved one, start by learning about addiction and understanding that it is a treatable illness that the individual can learn to manage. Encourage them to seek help and find treatment resources for themselves. Whether it's quitting smoking, drinking, or other substances, a positive support system is crucial for an addict's recovery.
Set an example by avoiding addictive substances yourself. Learn to set boundaries and not make excuses for their behavior. Remain optimistic that they will eventually seek help and support them when they ask for help. Consider seeking help for yourself, as you may also need additional support.
Where to get help with substance abuse
Substance abuse or addiction is a treatable medical condition, but the sooner you identify the signs of substance abuse and get help, the more likely long-term recovery will be. The best place to start is to talk with a healthcare provider. You may also look for a doctor, counselor, or therapist specializing in addiction medicine for further guidance.
If you or your family member is not ready to speak to a healthcare provider, consider calling a substance or addiction hotline. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has a free and confidential 24-7 national hotline for individuals and families struggling with mental health or substance abuse problems. The phone number is 1-800-662-4357, or text HELP4U (435748), and they can assist in finding resources in your area.
When to seek medical help at urgent care
Healthcare providers at urgent care can help with non-emergency medical concerns that addiction-related behaviors might cause. If anyone you know or yourself is experiencing seizures, trouble breathing, or chest pain from substance abuse, you should seek emergency medical care at your local emergency department.
Medical professionals can treat minor cuts or injuries from substance abuse at a conveniently located urgent care center, 365 days a year. We can also provide referrals to local addiction treatment resources. If anyone you know or yourself is experiencing seizures, trouble breathing, chest pain, or shortness of breath from substance abuse, you should seek emergency medical care at your local emergency department.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about the symptoms of addiction and how to help someone with addiction.
Is addiction a choice or a disease?
Addiction is considered a chronic but treatable disease. While people can make choices in recovery, addiction itself is not simply a lack of willpower.
Can addiction be cured?
Addiction is usually managed rather than “cured.” With treatment and support, many people reduce or stop substance use and maintain long-term recovery.
Are some people more likely to develop an addiction than others?
Yes. Genetics, family history, early substance use, mental health conditions, trauma, and environment can all increase the risk of addiction.
How long does addiction treatment take?
Treatment length varies by person, substance, and severity. Some people need short-term support, while others benefit from long-term counseling or recovery programs.
References:
- https://www.asam.org/quality-care/definition-of-addiction
- https://americanaddictioncenters.org/alcoholism-treatment/loving-an-addict
- https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline
