What are the Signs of Addiction?

Addiction is a serious issue, whether it be to alcohol or drugs. It can be difficult to recognise if you or someone you know has an addiction problem, and when they need residential addiction treatment.

Addiction is defined as a chronic disease which affects many of the brain’s functions such as reward, motivation and memory. If you have an addiction, you will crave a substance or type of behaviour, and you will ignore the other areas of your life to maintain your desire.

Common signs of addiction are:

• You have a lack of control or an inability to stay away from the substance or behaviour
• You experience decreased socialisation or you pull out of commitments or ignore your relationships
• You ignore other risk factors such as sharing needles despite being aware of consequences
• There are physical effects such as withdrawal symptoms or requiring a higher dosage to feel the effect

The intensity of your addiction may depend on how long it has been going on or the type and amount of the substance you use. Individuals without addictions can often identify a negative behaviour and remove it from their life, however if you have an addiction, you will find a way to justify the addiction rather than getting rid of it.

In order to get help, you must recognise the signs of addictions. These may be physical, mental or emotional. For example, you may experience changes in your personality, your weight, or how your loved ones act around you.

There are many types of substances you can be addicted to. It may include one or multiple of these:

• Nicotine
• Tobacco
• Alcohol
• Inhalants such as deodorant
• Cannabis
• Ice
• Heroin
• Cocaine
• GHB
• Prescription drugs

There are also various behavioural addictions, such as:

• Gambling
• Shopping
• Video games
• Internet
• Sex
• Working

Whatever it is that you are addicted to, it is important to recognise the signs early on and seek help if required.

Often, individuals with addictions show signs, such as:

• Lacking interest in previously enjoyed hobbies
• Neglecting loved ones
• Missing important events
• Taking risks
• Ignoring consequences of actions
• Keeping secrets
• Bloodshot eyes
• Change in weight
• Memory loss
• Changes in mood
• Aggression

Addictions can severely impact your life. For this reason, it is important to reach out and get help, so you can begin to move forward with your life and go down a healthier path.

If you’re struggling with an addiction, The Hader Clinic Queensland can help you understand how you can get on the road to recovery.

Dr Mel Symon

Director, Hader Group QLD

Dr Mel Symon is the Director of Hader Group QLD, leading both Hader Clinic Queensland and Hader Clinic Queensland Private. With more than 30 years of experience in human services and over 20 years as a founder and business leader, Mel has played a central role in establishing and growing Queensland’s leading addiction treatment services.

Mel holds a PhD in Addiction Treatment from the University of Queensland, along with a Master of Mental Health, Master of Professional Management, and a Bachelor of Social Science. Since 2016, she has overseen the development of the 40-bed Hader Clinic Queensland residential rehabilitation program and, in 2021, the creation and opening of the 25-bed Hader Clinic Queensland Private Hospital.

Passionate about lifelong recovery, Mel is dedicated to evidence-based care, meaningful change, and supporting individuals to rebuild their lives through sustainable recovery pathways.

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