Brilliant animation above. NUGGETS

 

An addiction doesn’t develop or happen overnight. In general, the path leads first to abuse and then, in some people, to addiction. So the most important thing you can do is to avoid that path, or get help in stepping off of that road as soon as you recognize a possible problem. In most cases, an addiction typically starts with experimental use and progresses over time into a need to use regularly, even at the expense of health and safety.

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Over a period of time (how long depends on the individual and the substance or behavior), the addict compulsively seeks out and craves the substance or behavior, needing more and more to attain euphoria or the “high.” At this point, the addict is no longer able to stop using. Because addiction is a disease, treatment and ongoing support are typically necessary, and relapses are common and to be expected.

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It can be extremely difficult to admit to a possible problem – and even harder for the addict to recognize that he or she is addicted. Here are some of the most common signs of addiction, from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services:

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• Change in friends and hangouts

• Changes in mood, motivation, attitude

• Absenteeism at work or school

• Increased need for cash

• Bloodshot eyes or enlarged pupils

• Sudden weight changes (gain or loss)

• Secretive behaviors; lying

• Tremors in the hands

• Ignoring once-loved activities

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(from Addict|ion website)