When drug use becomes addiction
If you use drugs, you might associate them with pleasant feelings. What you probably don’t consider while you are high are the harmful effects, such as permanent health damage, and eventually, drug addiction. But how long does it take to become drug dependent? And which drugs are mentally and physically addictive? Substance dependence can be very disruptive to your daily life; the sooner you reach out for help, the better your chances of recovery. Our team can provide the answers if you need them now.
What are drugs?
Drugs are substances that cause chemical changes in your brain and affect the functioning of your body and mind. We can classify them according to how they work. For example, there are:
- stimulants, e.g. speed, cocaine and crystal meth
- depressants and sedatives, e.g. alcohol, cannabis and opiates
- hallucinogens, e.g. ketamine, magic mushrooms, LSD and other psychedelics
You could also categorise each type as a soft drug, hard drug or prescription drug. The effects vary according to type, situation and even person.
Am I drug dependent?
No one intentionally chooses to become drug dependent. However, even occasional use could easily evolve into addiction. You may also suffer from underlying issues, which could cause you to slowly lose control over your behaviour. When you are addicted to drugs, 'wanting to use' gradually turns into 'needing to use'. Quitting on your own becomes increasingly difficult. The harmful effects of your drug use might become a daily struggle.
Do you recognise the following:
- you deny using drugs
- you lie about how often and how much you use
- you suffer from mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety
- you become angry when someone asks about your drug use
- you feel guilty or ashamed about using
- you feel isolated or lonely
- your life seems to be on a downward spiral due to your drug use
- you don't know how to stop using
You probably use drugs rarely, or tried them once or twice. And when you do, you stay in control; you know exactly when you have had enough.
Are you worried about someone close to you? Reach out to us for personal advice.
You may use drugs occasionally, for example in a social setting, and you do so in moderation. That awareness helps you stay in control, without it coming at the cost of your health, your relationships or your daily life.
This test is meant to give you insight into your drug use, and perhaps something to think about. Drug addiction often develops slowly and unnoticed. Even at low risk, there is a chance that your use gradually increases.
Even so, do you sometimes feel that drugs take up too much space in your life? Or are you worried about someone close to you? Whatever your question, we are here for you. You can reach us on 040-303 5023 or fill in the contact form at the bottom of the page. We will contact you as soon as possible.
Using drugs may seem harmless: a brief escape from stress, low moods or boredom, or a way to feel nothing for a while. But if you notice that you need drugs more and more often, or in heavier doses, a risky pattern can take hold without you realising it. Stopping can then become harder and harder.
Does this sound familiar? Do not keep it to yourself. We listen, and we give you the advice you need right now.
Has ‘wanting to use’ quietly turned into ‘having to use’? Do drugs weigh on you every day? Only you know the answers.
Our drug self-assessment test is not here to judge. We know how hard it is to admit that you cannot go on like this. Asking for help can feel like a huge step. But we know from experience that this first step can be the start of a life without addiction. We can help you take it. You can reach us on 040-303 5023 or fill in the contact form at the bottom of the page. We will get back to you soon.
Maybe drugs have become a fixed part of your day, and going a single day without feels out of reach. Maybe the drugs bring problems you can no longer ignore, or a sense of shame you carry quietly. Only you know how true that is.
With drug addiction, your own brain works against you: it convinces you there is no problem and does everything it can to pull you back to using again. That is why willpower alone is often not enough to break the pattern, even when the harm to body and mind is serious.
Do you know, deep down, that this cannot continue? Then do not wait any longer. We listen, and we give you the advice you need right now.
Rehabilitation for drug addicts at Connection SGGZ
If you want to regain control of your life, our team of professionals and recovery mentors offer you the tailor-made support you need right now. Our rehabilitation programme for drug addicts consists of: