What are the early warning signs of a developing substance addiction?

Good question — catching substance problems early makes treatment much more likely to succeed. Below are common early warning signs grouped by type, plus what you can do if you notice them.

Common early warning signs
- Changes in use patterns
- Using more often, in larger amounts, or for longer than intended
- Cravings or a strong urge to use
- Failed attempts to cut down or control use
- Needing more of the substance to get the same effect (tolerance)

- Behavioral changes
- Secrecy, lying, evasiveness about activities or whereabouts
- Spending a lot of time obtaining, using, or recovering from use
- Neglecting responsibilities at work, school or home
- Giving up or losing interest in hobbies and social activities
- Risky behavior while intoxicated (driving, unsafe sex, illegal acts)

- Psychological signs
- Mood swings, irritability, anxiety, restlessness, or depression
- Using substances to relieve stress, escape problems, or change mood
- Decreased motivation, concentration problems, memory issues

- Physical and health signs
- Sleep disturbance, appetite/weight changes, persistent fatigue
- Bloodshot eyes, slurred speech, poor coordination
- Unexplained injuries, frequent illness, changes in appearance
- Track marks (if injecting) or other signs of route of use

- Social/financial/legal signs
- Money problems, borrowing or stealing money
- Conflicts with family or friends, social isolation
- Getting into legal trouble related to substance use

- Withdrawal signs (when not using)
- Physical or emotional symptoms—shaking, sweating, nausea, anxiety, irritability—when cutting down or after stopping

Important notes
- Seeing one or two of these signs doesn’t prove addiction, but they are red flags that merit attention.
- Early-stage problems are often easier to treat than more entrenched addiction.

What to do if you notice these signs
- Talk openly and nonjudgmentally if you’re concerned about someone (or yourself). Express concern, listen, and avoid blaming.
- Encourage a medical or behavioral health evaluation (primary care, mental health professional, addiction specialist).
- Consider screening tools (CAGE-AID for alcohol/drugs, AUDIT for alcohol, DAST for other drugs) — a clinician can administer these.
- Seek early interventions: counseling/therapy, brief motivational interventions, outpatient programs, or peer support (e.g., SMART Recovery, 12-step groups).
- If there is a risk of overdose, learn about naloxone (for opioids) and have emergency numbers ready.
- If there is immediate danger to self or others, or signs of overdose (unresponsiveness, slow/shallow breathing, blue lips/fingertips), call emergency services right away.

If you’d like, I can:
- Give sample conversation phrases to use when talking with someone you’re worried about.
- List local resources or helplines (tell me your country or state).
- Provide a short self-check questionnaire you can use privately.