A question that’s asked often is ‘how do I know if I have lost control of drug or alcohol use?” Plenty of people who use drugs and alcohol on a regular basis swear they can stop anytime they want. And the truth is, not everyone who uses drugs or alcohol needs to help. Just as many people who do need help aren’t able to recognize that they’ve lost control of their drug or alcohol use. So how do you tell if you or a loved one has lost control of drug or alcohol use?
People who occasionally experiment with drugs or alcohol do so not without risks. Any use of drugs or alcohol can affect someone’s ability to make good decisions. The physical risks of overdosing can happen on the first try or the one hundredth try of a substance. And if someone is predisposed to addiction, any drug or alcohol use can put them at risk for abuse or dependency. Familiarize yourself with the signs of abuse so that you know what to look for if you think someone’s or your own “experimentation” with drugs or alcohol has become more out of control than they or you realize.
Many people assume that if you drink or use drugs socially, as in with other people and not alone, then it’s not a problem. And while using drugs or alcohol alone can be a red flag, social drinking or drug use can lead to more severe substance use, while seeming innocent because it’s done with co-workers or with friends. The biggest thing to ask yourself or your loved one in situations like this, regardless of using alone or socially, is whether drugs or alcohol are continued to be used regardless of the negative consequences they might be causing. If this is the case, then control has been lost.
Some behaviors that might indicate that you or a loved one has lost control of drug or alcohol use:
- Trying to quit unsuccessfully
- Drug or alcohol use is leading to dangerous situations like drunk driving or trouble with the law
- Experience tolerance (using more of the same drug to get the same feeling) or withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit
- Withdrawing from family and friends.
The earlier that a problem is addressed the better the outcome, so act quickly if you suspect that you or a loved one has lost control of drug or alcohol use.
