What is an addiction? 

• Do you use to feel better?
• Do you use because of boredom?
• Do you use to fit in?
• Do you use more than you intended?
• When you use - do you find yourself in situations you later regret?
• Do you sometimes feel guilty about your use?
• Do you become angry or agitated when others mention your use?
• Do you use more than you used to - to get same effects?
• Do you find yourself skipping work and classes or putting things off because of using or thinking about it?
• Have you been unsuccessful in cutting down?
• Do you ever use first thing in the morning?
• Do you use because when you stop using, you feel worse?
• Do you continue using despite negative consequences?

Learn more about different philosophies of treating addiction in this Ted Talk
Learn more about the various types of addictions at helpguide.org

Alcohol

Blackouts are a definite sign that your brain can no longer tolerate alcohol. A Blackout is when you appear to be fully conscious while drinking but the next morning you cannot remember any of the events of the night. When memories from the night before are spotty and fragmented sometimes this is referred to as a “brown-out”.

Cannibis

Frequent users can develop both a physical and psychological dependence. This results in an increased amount of cannabis being used to 'feel normal'. The anxiety, agitation and depression often caused by heavy use of cannabis are managed by increasing the frequency and amount used.

Behavioral Addictions

Like other forms of compulsive behaviors, such as gambling, sex, exercise, eating, shopping, or gaming, behavioral addictions can become a way to escape from difficult emotions and situations. ​Behavioral addictions can be just as destructive to your quality of life as chemical addictions.