Are you an addict or alcoholic?

Introduction to Addiction

Addiction, whether referred to as "addict" or "alcoholic" or by the medical term Substance Use Disorder, is often surrounded by stigma, loneliness, and pain. The struggle may feel isolating, but it's essential to recognize the humanity behind these terms.

In our vulnerability lies our strength. In facing ourselves, we find our path to freedom and healing.

It's not a label but a condition that affects lives deeply. The journey to understanding oneself and one's relationship with substances can be fraught with emotion, fear, and confusion, but also hope and healing.

Diagnosing Yourself

Only you can determine if you are an addict or have a Substance Use Disorder. This personal insight is empowering and vital. You are not alone in this journey; approximately 5.5% of the world population has a diagnosed substance use disorder. The path to self-discovery may be challenging, but it is a crucial step towards healing.

21 Questions to Ask Yourself

Please read these questions with an open heart and answer them honestly:

1. Have you ever felt a need to cut down on your substance use?
2. Do friends or family members ever express concern about your drinking or drug use?
3. Have you ever lied to someone about how much or how often you consume substances?
4. Do you ever feel guilty or ashamed about your substance use?
5. Have you ever used substances to cope with stress or emotional pain or out of boredom?
6. Have you noticed an increased tolerance, needing more of the substance to achieve the desired effect?
7. Do you spend significant time obtaining, using, or recovering from the substance?
8. Have you ever neglected responsibilities at work, school, chores, hygiene, eating or home duties due to substance use?
9. Have you given up hobbies or activities you once enjoyed in favour of substance use?
10. Have you ever used substances in situations where it could be physically dangerous, such as driving or around people you don't trust?
11. Have you continued to use substances despite knowing it has caused or worsened physical or psychological problems?
12. Do you experience withdrawal symptoms when you cut down or stop using the substance?
13. Have you ever failed to meet your obligations to family or work because of substance use?
14. Have you ever tried and failed to permanently stop using/drinking?
15. Do you daydream about using or drinking?
16. Have you ever prioritized substance use over spending time with family or friends?
17. Have you ever spent excessive money on substances, even when it caused financial strain?
18. Do you find that your substance use has led to conflicts or issues in your relationships?
19. Have you ever chosen to be around people who use substances instead of friends or family who don't?
20. Have you ever sought medical help for issues related to substance use?
21. Have you continued to use substances despite negative consequences in your personal or professional life?

If any of these answers are YES, then continue reading with love, self care and openness.

Embracing the Truth

If you answered any questions with YES, you are likely an addict or alcoholic. Please know that it's OK. There's an abundance of support, compassion, and help available. You're taking the first courageous step by facing this truth. The fact that you're reading this right now means you have already started your journey to a better life.

It's not bad to be someone with an addiction problem. It's no different than someone living with a condition like diabetes. Like managing a medical condition, you need to modify your life a little bit to live healthily and freely, and that's absolutely OK. Remember, there are hundreds of millions of people with this problem, and probably hundreds of millions more that don't know it. You are not a bad person, you are just sick. And now you are seeking a solution.

Conclusion

Addiction can be a difficult journey, filled with uncertainty and fear. But in acknowledging this part of yourself, you are taking a brave and crucial step toward a better, more fulfilled life. There's a community out here waiting to support you, guide you, and walk with you every step of the way. You're not alone; you're embraced by compassion, understanding, and hope. Together, we'll find the strength and solutions to live a vibrant, healthy life.