How is addiction diagnosed

When people become dependent on a substance, it means that they experience drug tolerance and drug withdrawal:. A person can become dependent on a drug without being addicted, although the two often occur together.

Addiction occurs when people continue to compulsively use a drug despite harmful consequences. Addiction diagnosis usually requires recognizing that there is a problem and seeking help. Substance use is not always an indication of addiction, although drug use carries numerous health and social risks in addition to the risk of addiction.

Once a person has decided that they have a problem and need help, the next step is an examination by a healthcare professional. This involves questions about behaviors or substance use, an examination to assess overall health, and the development of a treatment plan that works best for the individual's specific addiction.

The exact diagnosis a person receives will depend on the nature of their addiction. Commonly misused substances that can lead to addiction include:. Because some substances have the potential to cause dangerous withdrawal symptoms , it is important to receive an appropriate diagnosis in order to get the best treatment. It is common, if not normal, to go through a stage of engaging in substance use or an addictive behavior without believing you are addicted.

This is so common, in fact, that it has a name, the pre-contemplation stage. If you are starting to think you might have an addiction, you have probably moved into the contemplation stage.

This is a great time to find out more about the substance or behavior that you have been engaging in and to reflect honestly on whether you are experiencing any signs or symptoms of addiction. Many people then decide to make changes. For some people, this is easy and manageable.

For many others, quitting can lead to unpleasant withdrawal symptoms, even with behaviors, and can open up uncomfortable feelings that were being soothed or suppressed by the addictive behavior.

If this happens, or if you have been drinking or using drugs, such as opioids—illicit or prescribed, other prescription medications, stimulants, cocaine, or meth—you should seek medical help immediately. Stopping some drugs then relapsing can heighten your risk of overdose, mental health problems, or other life-threatening medical complications, and should be done under medical supervision.

Substances and behaviors can create a physical and psychological high. Over time, people develop a tolerance, meaning it takes more of something to achieve those same initial effects. Some of the factors that can contribute to addiction include:.

Addictions take time to develop. It is unlikely that a person will become addicted after using a substance once, although it is possible to develop a mental health problem or to die of an overdose or another complication after one use of some substances. Addiction is treatable, but not all routes to recovery are the same.

Relapses are not uncommon, so the journey may take time. Although there are some schools of thought that stress the need for complete abstinence , many people are able to learn to control addictive behaviors, such as drinking, eating, shopping, and sex. The approach that will be best for you depends on many factors and is best decided in collaboration with your doctor or therapist. In addition to getting appropriate treatment, there are things that you can do that will make it easier to cope and aid in your recovery.

For more mental health resources, see our National Helpline Database. Many people fear the term addiction and believe it is an indication of failure or worthlessness. People with addictions often carry stigma about their behavior, leading to shame and fear of seeking help. The world is changing , and you may find that getting help for your addiction is the best thing you ever do for yourself.

In the meantime, we hope that educating yourself will help on your journey to wellness. Learn the best ways to manage stress and negativity in your life. American Society of Addiction Medicine. The diagnosis and treatment of comorbid substance use disorders and mental illness are complex, because it is often difficult to disentangle overlapping symptoms.

Patients entering treatment for psychiatric illnesses should be screened for substance use disorders and vice versa.

Accurate diagnosis is complicated, however, by the similarities between drug-related symptoms, such as withdrawal, and those of potentially comorbid mental disorders. Thus, when people who use drugs enter treatment, it may be necessary to observe them after a period of abstinence to distinguish between the effects of substance intoxication or withdrawal and the symptoms of comorbid mental disorders.

This practice results in more accurate diagnoses and allows for better-targeted treatment. Polysubstance use is common, and many people develop multiple comorbid substance use disorders Table 1. Finding a healthcare provider or attending an addiction support group are the first steps you can take to get on the road to recovery. Sign up for our Health Tip of the Day newsletter, and receive daily tips that will help you live your healthiest life.

American Society of Addiction Medicine. Definition of addiction. Updated September 15, McLellan AT. Substance misuse and substance use disorders: Why do they matter in healthcare? Trans Am Clin Climatol Assoc. Your Privacy Rights. To change or withdraw your consent choices for VerywellHealth. At any time, you can update your settings through the "EU Privacy" link at the bottom of any page.

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