A question worth asking
Am I an Addict?
If you have been using alcohol or other substances in a way that jeopardizes your physical, mental, or social well-being, you may have asked yourself this question. Here is how clinicians define addiction — and how to get a real answer.
About this guide
Addiction self-assessment
Addiction is a complex disorder that affects different people in different ways. Some people use certain substances for extended periods without becoming addicted; others become dependent after extremely limited use. Understanding the many facets of addiction is an essential part of answering the question honestly.
First, what the word actually means: “addict” is an informal term for a person struggling with a substance use disorder — the clinical term for addiction. The National Institute on Drug Abuse describes addiction as a brain disease characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use despite adverse consequences. The DSM-5, the standard reference used by most behavioral healthcare providers in the United States, lists specific criteria for diagnosis — typically involving behavioral changes, social impairment, continued use after negative outcomes, and the development of tolerance and withdrawal symptoms.
Ambrosia provides addiction assessments and multiple levels of care at its West Palm Beach and Singer Island facilities, with customized care plans built around each person's needs.
Self-check
Start with an honest self-check
Answer each question honestly. This is not a diagnosis — it is a starting point for a conversation with a clinician.
Do you ever use drugs secretly or when you are alone?
Have you tried to stop using, but been unable to?
Do you need drugs to experience pleasure or to cope with emotional pain?
Do you spend a lot of time thinking about or trying to obtain substances?
Has your use caused problems at work, in school, or at home?
Do you experience cravings or a strong desire to use?
Have you lied to friends or family about how much or how often you use?
Have people close to you expressed concern about your use?
Have you used in physically hazardous situations, like driving or caring for small children?
Do you have withdrawal symptoms when you stop — or use to avoid them?
Have you taken more, or used longer, than you intended?
Does it now take more of the substance to achieve the same effect?
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If you are still unsure, talk with admissions. A quiz is not a diagnosis — a clinician can help you read the full picture.
How to read your answers
If you answered yes to two or three of these questions, you may be struggling with addiction and should consult with a professional. A quiz like this is not a formal self-diagnosis — but questioning and assessing your relationship with substances can lead to positive change. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, dial 911 immediately.
During a professional addiction assessment, you will be asked about your health and behavior: the nature and frequency of your substance use, your reasons for using, any history of trauma or mental illness, and the impact use has had on your life. At the end of that conversation, the professional can make a proper diagnosis and recommend treatment options.
If the answer is yes, how do I get help?
Acknowledging the problem is a vital first step — but just one step. Depending on the nature and severity of the addiction, you may benefit from one or more levels of care: detoxification, inpatient rehab, intensive outpatient programming (IOP), or outpatient treatment.
There is no one perfect type of addiction treatment that works for everyone. Focus on finding the provider whose services best match your specific needs, goals, and preferences.
Questions to ask a treatment program
When you are evaluating treatment programs, pointed questions help you find the right fit:
- Does the facility offer multiple levels of care?
- Does each client follow an individualized treatment plan?
- How will you determine which programs and services are best for me?
- Can you treat co-occurring mental health concerns alongside addiction?
- Is there family programming so my loved ones can learn to support my recovery?
- Do you provide alumni services after treatment — and do you accept insurance?
Ready to talk with admissions?
Admissions is available 24/7 to answer questions about mental health and substance use treatment options.