Signs that Substance Use is Becoming Substance Abuse


By Michelle Lara-Canlas, LPCC

Just because you use substances, does not necessarily mean you will become dependent, but there are high risks and serious consequences due to the addictive nature of substances. Here are some questions to ask yourself or someone you know if the substance use is becoming problematic: 
  • Is it affecting your daily routines?
  • Is it starting to affect your academics or work?
  • Is it starting to affect your relationships?
  • Is it impacting your physical and mental health?
  • Are you using it more often or for longer than you intended?
  • Do you find yourself needing it or looking forward to it most of the time?
  • Have your other priorities fallen behind and your substance use has become the most important thing?
  • Are you making financial changes to make sure you can afford it? Even when you can’t afford it?
  • You want to stop using it, but it is becoming increasingly difficult to stop?

Tips to help Monitor Substance Use

  • Remember to monitor your use and be honest about your personal limits
  • Know what usually triggers you to use substances in excess: certain people or environments, your emotional state, stress or feeling overwhelmed, etc.
  • Setting realistic limits for yourself
  • Plan accordingly for social situations where you may be pressured, like arriving late or leaving early to a party, taking a friend or loved one who will be able to hold you accountable to your limits, etc.
  • Learn from each situation and use that to help you the next time
  • Consider getting mental health counseling or joining a support group
  • Share about your struggles with trusted loved ones to get the support you need
If you or someone you know is at risk of their substance use turning into abuse, then it would be important to have an honest conversation and plan for next steps. There is often a lot of shame and guilt around substance use, but with a little courage, it can get better by asking for help and taking the next steps. 

Below are some helpful resources:

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