How do I know if I have a problem with Drugs?

There is a common misconception that a drug addict is a ‘junkie’ living in a squat shooting up heroin. While this may be the case for some addicts the majority of drug addicts do not fall into this category. Drug addiction can take many forms including prescription medication (anti depressants, pain relief, tranquillisers etc.) and what are known as ‘recreational’ drugs (Cocaine, ecstasy, speed, cannabis etc.)  People that have an addiction to drugs can (and do) lead a seemingly normal life.

Questionnaire

The questions below will help you to decide if it would be advisable to seek further advice; if you answer the questions honestly and you answer yes to three or more then you may have a problem.

  Yes No
1.    Do have any close relatives that have had a problem with drugs or alcohol?
     
  Yes No
2.    Do you use drugs to help detach yourself from life’s problems?
     
  Yes No
3.    Do you sometimes use prior to attending a social function to avoid the risk of being caught using?
     
  Yes No
4.    Do you think about drugs often and are preoccupied with when you can next use?
     
  Yes No
5.    Have you changed your friends to those who are more accepting of your using?
     
  Yes No
6.    Have you noticed that you need to take more of your drug of choice to achieve the desired effect?
     
  Yes No
7.    Do you lie to others about your using?
     
  Yes No
8.    Do you ever take drugs during unsociable hours such as during the day or in the morning?
     
  Yes No
9.    Do you hide your drugs and make efforts to protect your supply?
     
  Yes No
10.    Do you isolate yourself to allow you to take drugs on your own?
     
  Yes No
11.    Has using ever caused you problems at work, school or at home?
     
  Yes No
12.    Have your friends ever commented on the amount of drugs you take or changes in your behaviour since you have been using?
     
  Yes No
13.    Do you ever promise yourself to limit the quantity of drugs you take to find that you take more?
     
  Yes No
14.    Do you feel guilt, remorse and a sense of low self esteem when you have used drugs?
     
  Yes No
15.    Have you ever known that there would be negative consequences to your using but you have taken drugs regardless of this?
     
  Yes No
16.    Have you taken drugs in order to return to a state of normality?
     
  Yes No
17.    Have you ever tried to stop taking drugs for a period of time but failed?
     
  Yes No
18.    Does your using make you feel more normal and like everyone else?
     
  Yes No
19.    Do you feel you have no choice as to whether you use or not?
     
  Yes No
20.    Do you make sure you have enough money for your drugs at the expense of other commitments such as buying food or paying bills?

 

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