When Are You Addicted?

When Are You Addicted: In Brief

How do you know if you’re addicted? In short, you’re addicted when you lose control over your behavior or substance use, when you’re constantly preoccupied with obtaining or using the substance or engaging in the behavior, and when you’re unable to stop on your own despite negative consequences. Below, you’ll find a short addiction self-test.*

What Defines an Addiction According to the DSM-V?

Addiction is diagnosed based on the criteria outlined in the DSM-V, a globally recognized manual that describes psychiatric disorders. In the DSM-V, the term “substance use disorder” is used instead of specifically referring to alcoholism or addiction. This disorder can arise from using various substances such as alcohol, cannabis, opioids, or stimulants. However, beyond drugs and alcohol, behaviors like gaming, gambling, or sex can also lead to addiction.

11 Characteristics of an Addiction

According to the DSM-V, there are 11 characteristics used to determine a substance use disorder:

• Do you identify with two or three of these characteristics? This is considered a mild disorder.
• Do you identify with four or five of these characteristics? This is considered a moderate disorder.
• Do you identify with six or more characteristics? This is considered a severe disorder.

Am I Addicted? 11 Characteristics

In which of these characteristics do you recognize yourself? Answer as honestly as possible.

• You use more than planned.
• Attempts to cut down or stop fail.
• You spend a lot of time obtaining or using the substance.
• There’s a strong urge to use.
• Your use causes problems at work, school, or home.
• You continue to use despite social or relationship problems that arise.
• You give up sports, hobbies, work, or school because of your use.
• You use despite sometimes putting yourself in dangerous situations.
• You use despite physical or psychological problems.
• You build a tolerance – you need increasingly larger amounts for the same effect.
• Withdrawal symptoms occur if you stop using the substance.

*This addiction self-test only provides an indication or could serve as a wake-up call to realize that your use is taking an unhealthy turn. It’s crucial to understand that a professional diagnosis and the right help are necessary. For this, you can consult your GP or reach out directly to The Grange.

A Serious Condition

It’s important to know that addiction is a serious condition and that professional help is often needed to address it. The Grange offers addiction treatment, both in the form of day programs and clinical programs, in the south of the Netherlands and South Africa. We can support you in your struggle with addiction, as well as your partner, friends, and family.

Is Addiction Inherited?

Addiction is estimated to be 40-60% attributable to genetics, while the other part is influenced by environmental factors, personal characteristics, and experiences. Researchers don’t fully understand how genetics influence addiction, but it is just one of many factors contributing to chemical dependency. Anyone can potentially become addicted, but children of addicts have an increased risk. There is no specific gene that determines who will develop an addiction; even genetically identical siblings can have different outcomes. Addiction is a chronic disease that requires treatment and is separate from willpower, personal success, or character.

Are You or Do You Know Someone Who Is Addicted?

Do you or someone close to you score high on the 11 criteria for addiction? If you suspect that you’re addicted or know someone who might be, it’s wise to contact a specialized addiction care institution for a professional assessment and guidance.