Signs and symptoms of substance abuse or addiction

• Regularly or continued substance use to cope emotionally, socially or physically
• Neglecting responsibilities and activities that are important or enjoy (e.g. work, study, family, hobbies, sports, social commitments)
• Participating in dangerous or risky behaviours as a result of substance use (e.g. drink driving, unprotected sex, using dirty needles)
• Relationship problems (e.g. arguments with partner, family, friends, or losing friends)
• Physical tolerance – needing more of the substance to experience the same effects
• Withdrawal – physical and mental withdrawal symptoms when you are not using the substance or needing the substance to feel “normal”
• Losing control of your substance use – being dependent or unable to stop even if you want or try to
• Substance use takes over your life (e.g. spending a lot of time using, finding or getting the substance and recovering from the effects).