Signs of Addiction

Published: February 2026 | Last Updated: February 2026 | Reading Time: 8 min

Understanding the Signs of Addiction

Addiction rarely announces itself with a single dramatic event. Instead, it develops gradually through a series of changes — physical, behavioral, and psychological — that may initially seem minor or unrelated. Understanding these warning signs enables earlier intervention, which is consistently associated with better treatment outcomes and reduced long-term harm.

Physical Signs

Changes in Appearance

• Sudden weight loss or gain without intentional dietary changes
• Deterioration in personal grooming and hygiene
• Bloodshot or glazed eyes
• Dilated or constricted pupils
• Unusual skin changes — pallor, flushing, sores, or track marks
• Dental problems (particularly with methamphetamine or opioid use)

Health Changes

• Chronic fatigue or unusual bursts of energy
• Changes in sleep patterns — insomnia or sleeping excessively
• Frequent nosebleeds (with snorted substances)
• Unexplained nausea, vomiting, or appetite changes
• Tremors, slurred speech, or impaired coordination
• Frequent illness due to weakened immune function

Behavioral Signs

Daily Life Changes

• Neglecting work, school, or household responsibilities
• Missing deadlines, appointments, or important events
• Declining performance at work or school
• Financial problems — unexplained expenses, borrowing money, or missing funds
• Legal issues including DUI, possession charges, or disorderly conduct

Social Changes

• Withdrawing from family and long-time friends
• Associating with a new social group, particularly one that uses substances
• Secretive behavior — locking doors, hiding phone activity, unexplained absences
• Losing interest in hobbies and activities that were previously enjoyed
• Isolation and spending increasing amounts of time alone

Substance-Related Behaviors

• Using more of a substance or for longer than intended
• Failed attempts to cut back or quit
• Spending significant time obtaining, using, or recovering from substances
• Continuing use despite relationship, health, or legal problems
• Needing more of the substance to achieve the same effect (tolerance)
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using

Psychological Signs

Emotional Changes

• Unexplained mood swings — euphoria followed by depression
• Increased irritability, agitation, or anger
• Anxiety or paranoia
• Defensiveness when substance use is mentioned
• Emotional numbness or flat affect

Cognitive Changes

• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Memory problems and forgetfulness
• Confused or disorganized thinking
• Denial about the extent of substance use
• Rationalizing or minimizing use ("I can stop anytime")

The DSM-5 Criteria

The DSM-5 identifies 11 criteria for substance use disorders. Meeting 2-3 criteria indicates mild, 4-5 indicates moderate, and 6+ indicates severe substance use disorder:

1. Taking the substance in larger amounts or for longer than intended
2. Wanting to cut down but being unable to
3. Spending a lot of time obtaining, using, or recovering from the substance
4. Craving the substance
5. Failing to fulfill major role obligations due to use
6. Continuing use despite social or interpersonal problems caused by use
7. Giving up important activities because of use
8. Using in physically hazardous situations
9. Continuing use despite knowing it causes physical or psychological problems
10. Developing tolerance
11. Experiencing withdrawal symptoms

What to Do If You Recognize These Signs

In Yourself

Recognizing addiction in yourself is a courageous first step. This awareness, while difficult, opens the door to change. Professional assessment can help determine the severity of the condition and recommend appropriate treatment.

In a Loved One

If you recognize addiction signs in someone you care about, approach with compassion, express concern using specific observations rather than labels, avoid enabling behaviors, set boundaries, and encourage professional help.

FAQ

Can someone hide addiction? Temporarily, yes. Many individuals with substance use disorders become skilled at concealing their use, particularly in the early stages. However, as addiction progresses, the signs become increasingly difficult to hide.

Are these signs always caused by addiction? No. Many of these signs can have other causes (medical conditions, mental health disorders, stress). However, when multiple signs appear together and persist, professional evaluation is warranted regardless of the cause.

How many signs need to be present to indicate addiction? There is no magic number. The DSM-5 uses 11 criteria, with 2+ indicating a substance use disorder. However, even one or two concerning signs should prompt a conversation with a healthcare professional.

Can addiction develop quickly? Yes. Some substances (opioids, methamphetamine, cocaine) can lead to dependence relatively quickly. Individual factors including genetics, mental health, and the substance involved all influence the speed of addiction development.

References

• American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.).
• NIDA. (2022). Understanding Drug Use and Addiction DrugFacts.
• SAMHSA. (2023). Know the Risks of Using Drugs.

Written by the Valley Spring Recovery Center Editorial Team

Ready to take the first step toward recovery? Contact Valley Spring Recovery Center today at (201) 781-8812 or reach out to our admissions team for a confidential consultation.