Getting alcohol and drug addiction or abuse under control is no easy task. Mostly because by the time one becomes an addict they may already be in dential about it. Here are a few suggestions to make yourself more aware of what you need to look out for in yourself and others:
1. Neglecting normal activities, these may include such as social or pleasurable interactions. Those who become addicted to alcohol or drugs tend to withdrawl from what was once normal to them.
2. Accessive use. Addiction is slow, but over time the addicted person will start using more and more to get drunk or high.
3. Poor control. While you may want to stop or have made efforts to stop, you can't seem to do it.
4. Time spend around alcohlol or drugs. Addicts tend to find or make more time around their habits. Are you hanging out with more using friends and not spending as much time with those you really care about or love?
5. Experiencing withdrawl. This occurs when you try and stop and you feel nausea, sweating, shakiness, or anxiety when you don't use for an extended period of time.
6. Increased tolerance. This happens when you need to use more to get the same effect. Perhaps 3 beers got you buzzed, but not it takes 10.
While in patient or out patient treatment may be an option, considing an online drug and alcohol awareness class might be your first step.