How do I know if I am addicted?
To define addiction; addiction is not a disease that develops suddenly. It progresses within a period and cycle. It develops gradually. By the time a person realizes this, addiction has usually developed. If it is detected early whether a person is addicted or not, the likelihood of successful treatment is higher.
There are criteria for addiction. To talk about these;
How often they have used substances or alcohol in the past year,
When they stop using substances or alcohol; whether they experience some of the symptoms such as insomnia, sweating, irritability, restlessness, trembling,
The situation of giving up other activities in their life because of use (such as hobbies, social relationships, family visits),
Whether it negatively affects their physical or mental health,
Whether the use has negative effects on family, friendship relationships, or any aspect of school-work life,
Whether there is use even during daytime hours,
By looking at the method of substance use, addiction is evaluated.
If a person meets at least 3 of these criteria within a 12-month period, it means addiction has developed.
Addiction is a disease that shows similar characteristics to chronic diseases like hypertension and diabetes. For example, if a person with high blood pressure pays attention to salt use, their blood pressure values remain within normal limits. But if they increase salt use, their controlled blood pressure suddenly rises. Addiction is just like hypertension. As long as the person stays away from the substance, their addiction is under control. When substance or alcohol use is reintroduced into their life, the addiction returns.
Addiction is a disease, but it is a disease that shows improvement and recovery with the right treatment methods. The person needs to live carefully, just as with diseases like hypertension or diabetes. If they pay attention, they can continue their life without experiencing a relapse.
If you have concerns or doubts about this, it is important to consult an addiction center.